Project overview
This A3 publication, "Happenings", captures the memories, feelings, thoughts, and opinions of individuals who regularly used the underpasses of Elephant and Castle, London. As plans to remove these vibrant pedestrian underpasses sparked debate, this project sought not to take sides, but instead document the atmosphere, history, and community sentiment surrounding these iconic walkways. Through interviews, photography, and illustration, "Happenings" visually preserves these elements as a graphic memento of the underpasses, providing a glimpse into the conversations and lived experiences of those passing through.
Research & Development
The project began with extensive interviews and on-site observations to gather the community's thoughts and stories on the underpasses' possible removal. I also photographed various scenes within the tunnels to capture the environment and the daily life of those who used the space. The publication further explores the stunning paintings that adorned the walls of the underpasses, which I have carefully preserved within the pages of the book.
In addition to the photographic documentation, I included my own original illustrations and paintings, inspired by both the underpasses and the people who frequented them. The combination of personal artistic interpretation and community experiences creates a rich, multi-layered narrative throughout the publication.
Design Execution
The cover was printed using letterpress, a method that reflects the bold geometric patterns of the underpass tiles and enhances the sensory impact of the publication. The tactile nature of letterpress printing adds a physical dimension to the project, echoing the underpasses' real-world textures and the aesthetic of the urban landscape.
The cover design itself gained attention as a standalone poster. It was purchased by lecturers at UAL: London College of Communication, as well as individuals from the local community, including the well-known London Guerrilla Gardener, celebrated for his work in transforming neglected urban spaces into vibrant green areas.
Inside, the publication is designed with a mix of my own illustrations, photographic documentation, and stories from the local community. The paintings and illustrations celebrate the creativity found within the tunnels, while the personal stories reflect the deep connection people had with Elephant and Castle’s underpasses.
The interior pages are printed using Helvetica Neue for body text and display, creating a clean and modern layout that contrasts with the hand-crafted look of the cover. The publication is printed on Zen 150gsm (GFSmith, London) and Heritage 160gsm (Falkiner Fine Papers) to achieve high print quality and durability.
A small number of limited-edition A2 letterpress prints are still available for purchase. If you're interested in acquiring one, please get in touch via the 'Let's talk' page.
Letterpress-printed cover of "Happenings", inspired by the bold, colourful tiles of Elephant and Castle’s underpasses. Popular as a poster among community members and design enthusiasts, including lecturers at LCC and the London Guerrilla Gardener.
Letterpress-printed cover of "Happenings", inspired by the bold, colourful tiles of Elephant and Castle’s underpasses. Popular as a poster among community members and design enthusiasts, including lecturers at LCC and the London Guerrilla Gardener.
Artwork from pedestrian subways of Elephant and Castle
Artwork from pedestrian subways of Elephant and Castle
Artwork from pedestrian subways of Elephant and Castle
Artwork from pedestrian subways of Elephant and Castle
Artwork from pedestrian subways of Elephant and Castle
Two page spread in the London College of Communications Design for Visual Communication publication
Richard Reynolds (aka London's Guerrilla Gardener) after purchasing his 'Happenings' print--hot off the press!
Process
Working on the letterpress machine to create the distinctive cover for "Happenings".
development
