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
We see these alcoves as spaces to test new ideas, speak directly to consumers, providing much needed space to local community groups as well as a place to support business, charities and provide (and deliver) seasonal activities.
Expressions of Interest are now being sought from groups, individuals, businesses, charities, resident associations or anyone with a good idea!
Tell us when and how you would like to use one or more of these alcoves in 2022 by filling in the form below and you could be offered the opportunity of being included in the forthcoming calendar of activity.
Please use the form below to submit an initial expression of interest. We will review all submissions and get in touch if we have further details. We are looking for passionate people and good ideas. We can help you realise your vision if you tell us about it. Please return all forms to
hellocreativethinking@gmail.com
Either fill in the EOI form below or click this link to be taken directly to the web form.