The Winston Churchill building at Paddington Square is home to a unique three-year rotational art programme. Commissioned by Great Western Developments Ltd and curated by The Showroom in partnership with Lacuna, this initiative brings large-scale public artworks to a prominent London location, with the aim to celebrate contemporary artists, keep the space visually fresh, and make art accessible to the public in a highly visible urban setting.
The first annual rotation required replacing Kathrin Böhm’s 2024 installation ‘Why do we care about art?’ with a new commission ‘Hand Over Hand’ by Long Distance Press (Adam Shield and Thomas Whittle).
The new installation transforms Tanner Lane into a striking visual destination, with the permanent Catherine Yass installation on the same road, its bold composition capturing the attention of pedestrians, commuters, and visitors alike. The piece’s impressive scale at 87.75 square metres creates an undeniable presence in the urban streetscape.
Printed on PVC-free material, the banner not only stands up to the demands of an outdoor city environment but also reflects a commitment to more sustainable production practices. Together the vibrant design, responsible material choice and sheer size contributes to a piece that commands space, sparks public conversation and brings a sense of visual clarity to an otherwise busy city backdrop.
This rotation marks just the beginning of an evolving cultural programme at Paddington Square. Over the next two years, the Winston Churchill building will continue to act as a living canvas, offering a new piece annually that reflects both the diversity of contemporary practice and the dynamic character of London itself.
Planning for the 2026/27 rotation is already underway, with artist Harold Offeh preparing to bring his vision to the site. By maintaining this rhythm of renewal, the project keeps the public space alive with fresh narratives, giving locals and visitors alike a reason to look up and take notice year after year. But for now…lets enjoy the spectacle!