Merchants Way is the new, colourful gateway through New Covent Garden Market to the riverside in Nine Elms. Consisting of a beautiful new art installation bedecking the walls of the pathway, proud new LGBTQ+ rainbow crossings on either side and future opportunities for community activity within its secret alcoves, Merchants Way is bringing new vibrancy to Nine Elms.
Designed by artist and illustrator Anna Nicolò, the installation celebrates the Covent Garden Market’s famous 'Buyers' Walk', the rich heritage and architecture of the original market in Covent Garden, whilst simultaneously looking to the future heralded by VINCI St. Modwen’s regeneration of the site.
The pathway features hidden alcoves that will sustain pop-up programmes and community activities throughout the year, adding even more colour and animation to the everyday commuter journey. To express your interest in collaborating with us to animate the alcoves, scroll down to find out more and to fill in our EOI form.
The artwork itself celebrates the uniqueness of the site – the history and shared heritage of the market and its traders – but also of the role the site will play in the lives of Londoners as it increasingly becomes a place to work, live, invent, eat and dwell.
“As an Italian living in London, I’m very passionate about fresh produce and food in general, so it was exciting to learn about the heritage of New Covent Garden Market and to see so many colourful fruits, vegetables and flowers on display. Buyer’s Walk is inspired by a celebration of this rich and colourful landscape, distilled into a bright and joyful pattern, bringing together the past and the future of the market. I hope it brings joy and happiness to all that use the pathway over the next few years.” - Anna Nicolò
A fully curated programme of events and activities is being offered along Merchants Way throughout 2022, making it a joyous experience for both commuters and local residents alike. Follow us on Twitter and keep an eye on this page for future Merchants Way programmes.
The Pride Crossings view from Pascal Street towards the Buyers Walk installation
Artist Anna Nicoló walking her dog Olive through Merchants Way past one of our alcoves.
© Mickey Lee 2021
Do you have a creative or food-based business idea you'd like to trial? Are you a local designer or artist looking for outdoor exhibition space? Part of a community organisation or project looking to interact with residents and workers in Nine Elms?
We'd love to hear from anyone with an idea about how to use the alcoves on Merchants Way and invite you to send us your proposals via our Expression of Interest form below. Send your completed form or queries to team@vsm9elms.co.uk.
We look forward to hearing from you.