Surbiton High Street has been enriched by a new public artwork following a community unveiling event over the weekend.

On Saturday 20 June, residents, visitors, and local organisations gathered at The Elm Tree pub on Victoria Road to celebrate the unveiling of a large-scale contemporary mural.

The new public landmark, which adorns the long side wall of the building, was brought to life through a collaboration between the Elm Tree Pub, Surbiton Art Trail and Surbiton Town Centre Partnership to enhance Surbiton's public spaces and boost the local economy.

The partnership has been brought together through collaboration between local community organisations, residents, businesses, and Kingston Council.

Designed by abstract artist Nick Blaney (who works under the street name Good Night Vienna) and delivered in collaboration with the Surbiton Art Trail under producer Stephen Norman Young, the bold mural completely revitalises the exterior of The Elm Tree pub.

The artwork draws inspiration from Surbiton's local roots, mirroring the iconic Joyce and Collins mosaic at the nearby Sainsbury's, alongside the area's rich railway heritage.

Using bold geometric forms, rhythmic patterns, and vibrant colors, the design evokes the spirit of movement, connectivity, and transport links that have long shaped Surbiton's growth and identity.

The unveiling was marked by a lively, family-friendly event that brought together various facets of Surbiton's cultural and community life.

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Attendees at the launch enjoyed tacos from Pretty Boy Tacos served at The Elm Tree and live music from Scottish artist Ella Fyfe, as well as updates from the Surbiton Town Centre Partnership on their current and future activities.



Local residents, organisations, and community groups enjoyed a mural unveiling party on Saturday (Credit: Stephen Norman Young)

The Mayor of Kingston, Councillor Thay Thayalan, and the Deputy Mayor, Councillor Jane Lim, attended the unveiling.

Speaking after the unveiling, the Mayor praised the initiative, emphasising how vital these partnerships are for the borough's future.

He said: "Initiatives like this new mural and celebrations by the local community are incredibly important for Surbiton, breathing fresh life and color into our high street while celebrating the unique railway heritage.

"The Surbiton Town Centre Partnership has done fantastic work coordinating this project and supporting our local business economy.

"This successful launch proves that when we work hand-in-hand as a community - combining the efforts of volunteers, businesses, artists, and the council, we can achieve great things."

Reflecting on the successful launch, the project's Producer, Stephen Norman Young, added: "This is more than an unveiling - it's a celebration of Surbiton's creativity and community.

"The mural reflects the town's identity, and the event brings together the people and organisations who are actively shaping its future.

"It's also about supporting the High Street and encouraging more people to spend time in Surbiton. We are blessed to have the talent of Nick Blaney on display in our locality."

The project highlights the vital role played by the Surbiton Town Centre Partnership, which is spearheading initiatives to promote Surbiton, improve its aesthetic appeal, and celebrate local neighborhoods.

The Partnership is funded through a recent community infrastructure levy (CIL) grant from Kingston Council, and the new mural demonstrates how creative placemaking can yield significant benefits for local businesses and communities alike.

The new mural joins a proud collection of local public installations across the town, including the Rupert Bear murals on the train station footbridge that celebrate illustrator Alfred Bestall's 40-year residency in Surbiton.

To find out more about cultural initiatives, local business support, and upcoming events in the area, visit the Surbiton Town Centre Partnership website.

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