London Mural Festival returns for month

The first of more than 100 murals have been completed across London, as part of a month-long festival.

The London Mural Festival, which runs throughout September, spans 15 boroughs.

The first paintings are in Oval, the City of London and Camden.

Justine Simons, London's deputy mayor for culture and the creative industries, said she was "delighted" the festival had returned. It first took place in 2020.

"It is a wonderful example of how murals transform our city into a gallery and bring free art to everyone, helping to build a better city for everyone," she said.

The festival, run by Global Street Art, has released an interactive map of all the mural locations and artists.

Dr Lee Bofkin, CEO of Global Street Art, said the festival "leaves a long-lasting visual legacy across the city".

"Most of the 75 murals painted at our first edition four years ago still look great, and we hope the 100 murals we’re adding in 2024 will last as long," he said.

"The hard work, talent and love pouring out of the festival is unmatched. It’s well worth a squiz.”

The first mural of the festival, by Sebas Velasco, is titled A Lasting Place.

The painting, which took its title from the song by British rapper Loyle Carner, is located on Cobbett Street in Oval, south London. The mural depicts a young man in front of a Brixton train line at night.

Velasco said he was pleased with his first London mural.

“The wall, like the neighbourhood and the sitter, had so much character," he said.

"I was grateful for the creative freedom and support from the team in allowing me the space to properly explore this."