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Lewisham Legends

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Lewisham has a proud history of standing up for equality. In January, we asked you to nominate your Lewisham Legends – the people in our community now whose incredible contributions to the borough you wanted to see celebrated through giant public artworks.

We asked, you answered. We received hundreds of nominations for the people and spaces that make Lewisham such a special place. The murals – created by local artists – now stand tall, in different spots all over Lewisham Shopping Centre. We are so excited to be able to share our Lewisham Legends with you.

Ono Dafedjaiye by Molly Hankinson

Lewisham Shopping Centre, South Mall (Next to H&M, opposite We Are Lewisham unit)

About the Legend:
Ono was nominated for her trailblazing work in making the creative arts more inclusive for other people with learning disabilities. She is on the board at The Albany, is the longest-standing member of the team at Heart N Soul – a creative arts charity – where she’s worked for over ten years and has her own show on Soho Radio to help inspire women.

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Celebrating Lewisham Educators by Shauna Blanchfield

Lewisham Shopping Centre, North Square (Column next to Costa)

About the Legends:
There were so many heartfelt messages for the brilliant educators in the borough, who work so hard to inspire our children and young people to greatness. From teachers to school support staff, to mentors - this artwork is dedicated to them all.
This is an interactive piece. So if there was a special person who inspired your educational journey, please pick a piece of chalk and write or draw your own tribute.

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Buckthorne Cutting Nature Reserve and Fourth Reserve Foundation by Roshn

Lewisham Shopping Centre, Borough Mall (next to Shoe Zone)

About the Legends:
Anna Maria Cahalane and her partner Nick were nominated for their phenomenal efforts in driving forward the development of Buckthorne Cutting Nature Reserve. In doing so they have protected this rail-side wildlife habitat, helping local people respect and connect with the nature around them.

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Sybil Phoenix by Boudicca Collins

Lewisham Shopping Centre, West Mall (next to Sainsbury’s, opposite Wilko)

About the Legend:
Sybil Phoenix MBE, OBE – and former Lewisham Mayoress - began her long history of social activism after moving with her husband Joe to Lewisham in 1963. She has helped transform thousands of lives and was the first Black woman in the UK to be awarded an MBE for her incredible efforts. Among her many achievements, she started the first purpose-built Black youth club - now known as Moonshot Community Centre - in the UK.

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S-Factor Athletics Academy by Damian Simon

Lewisham Shopping Centre, South Mall exit (opposite NatWest)

About the Legend:
S-Factor Athletics Academy is a dynamic and inclusive athletics club based in Ladywell Arena. Coach Adam and his team received countless nominations for creating a welcoming environment where young people of varying abilities can come together to train or compete.

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Volunteers across the borough by Emma Barnie

Lewisham Shopping Centre, South Mall exit (opposite NatWest)

About the Legends:
This artwork is dedicated to all the incredible volunteers and organisations who give up their time to make a positive difference in the community. From food banks to online support services to befrienders – thank you for the work you do.

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Lewisham Legends is a project funded by London Borough of Culture 2022 in partnership with Landsec.