Upper Street Mural of birds and nature by Dr Zadok and Jo Hicks

Artists Hixxie and Zadok have created a new mural in Upper Street

Street artist Jo Hicks and internationally-known graffiti artist Dr Zadok worked for several days to hand-paint and spray a community-inspired mural on Upper Street.

The theme of the artwork ‘nature and gardens’ was chosen by Islington residents, following a public vote last month organised by new development Islington Square.

Other suggested themes included Poetry, Theatre history and Islington landmarks.

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Hicks led the creative direction of the mural, which used both liquid and spray paint to get the right colours and feel. It is located near the new hub for shops, leisure and culture on the former site of the North London Royal Mail Sorting Centre and was funded by property firm Cain International.

Both artists take inspiration from places of local or personal relevance with Wicks also dipping into tutti-frutti colour palettes, tropical plants, archival photography and 50s print design, while Dr Zadok brings a sense of playfulness between the real and surreal and a love of drawing flora and fauna.

Wicks says the painting Full Bloom was in response to locals’ desire to see nature explored while encouraging people to garden more: “It’s a celebration of horticulturists across Islington,” she said.

“Gardening in urban environments is so important to maintain healthy spaces and healthy minds. This larger than life piece features bees and other insects, reminding people of our dependence on the natural world and encouraging everyone to make the most of whatever small garden or balcony they have.”

Species featured include winter beauty evergreen Clematis which offers nesting shelter for birds and other species, and a pink climbing rose for sheer colour.

The pair hope the mural gives people a reason to stop by or slow down while enjoying the positive effects of greenery and nature whether in real life or on a wall.