Southside Shopping Centre has unveiled a vibrant new mural at its centre, created by local artist, Ruki Chuki.
Artist, Ruki Chuki in front of her mural at Southside Shopping Centre
The mural has transformed the brickwork at the centre’s busy West Entrance into a colourful and welcoming space that reflects the vibrant character and soul of the community in Wandsworth. Due to the scale and intricacy of the work, the mural was completed over the course of a week.
Ruki recently won a competition to create a mural in the heart of Wandsworth, following an open call issued by Southside’s owners Landsec and Invesco Real Estate.
Hailing from North Macedonia, 38-year-old Ruki, has lived in Wandsworth for eight years with her husband and children, and has grown to appreciate how welcoming the culture and spirit is within the community, and that the borough is such a family-friendly place.
The mural features bright colours which portray the vibrancy and diversity in the community, demonstrating not just the array of different cultures and backgrounds but also so many characters in one person. It also demonstrates how love transcends communities and connects different people no matter their background.
Rebecca Ruddle, Centre Director at Southside Shopping Centre, said: “We are thrilled to unveil this wonderful, eye-catching and colourful mural at Southside and showcase the talent of the local community.
“As part of the centre refresh, which is currently underway, we wanted to support the work of emerging artists in the borough and provide them with a canvas to showcase their talent and leave a mark in Wandsworth.
“Ruki’s design has captured the essence of the community perfectly and portrays the essence of what it is to be a resident here in Wandsworth. We hope the artwork will inspire and resonate with all who see it, as well as brighten up their day.”
Ruki Chuki commented: “I am delighted to have my artwork displayed at Southside Shopping Centre.
“My art has always been a way for me to channel my thoughts and emotions and to document important moments in my life, whether it be my journey to motherhood and my relationship with my body or what it is like to live in London.
“Winning this competition and creating the mural has been a real confidence boost. I’m really thankful for the opportunity and the chance to get my name out there and showcase more of my work within the local community.”
The installation of the mural is part of Southside Shopping Centre’s multi-million-pound regeneration plans, with significant enhancements being made including the remodelling of the North and South entrances as well as improvements inside the centre.