The Sidings, 2023

The Sidings, Acton
Completed · 2023

The Sidings is a 45-metre abstract mural by Henry Woolway on the back wall of Acton Central station, commissioned by GS8 London and produced by JG Contemporary. At four metres high, it is one of the largest works JG Contemporary has delivered, a single continuous composition that turns the long rear wall of the station into a landmark for the neighbourhood.

Henry’s abstract practice is built on rhythm, structure and colour, and the site shaped the work. Set against a working railway, the mural takes its cue from the line itself: bands of form and colour run along the wall with the momentum of passing trains, recalling the industry that grew up around the railway in this part of Acton. It also looks forward, to the new homes and community taking shape beside the station. It is a work about movement and transformation, readable at walking pace and from a distance.

As a private commission, the project had no formal community programme, but the neighbourhood found its way in regardless. While Henry was painting, residents stopped by to watch, talk and ask about the work, and some picked up a brush and helped paint sections of the wall. JG Contemporary brought Henry to the project, developed the design with the artist, managed the design and approvals, and delivered the mural on site

Artist: Henry Woolway
Client: Kyte Property / GS8 London
Produced and delivered by: JG Contemporary
Scale: 45m × 4m
Location: The Sidings, Acton Central, London
Completed: 2023