YOU CRAFTY THING - MAKING A STATEMENT WITH RACHEL JOY
PENHALIGON'S INVITED LETTERING ARTIST RACHEL JOY TO DESIGN AND HAND-PAINT A BOLD MURAL IN EAST LONDON
Published 31 days ago
10 min read
As Penhaligon's celebrates the launch of its newest fragrance, Bold Blend, it's only fitting that we go bigger and bolder than ever before when championing British craftsmanship. This time, we asked lettering artist Rachel Joy to paint an impactful wall mural in East London that captures the message behind our new scent: Be Bold. Start Here.
THE ARTIST
Rachel pursued a career as a graphic designer before venturing into the world of street art and lettering. When she discovered her great-grandfather had been a sign painter, she became fascinated by the craft and started the practice herself. What started as a series of commissions for family and friends quickly garnered the interest of the public and brands, leading Rachel to take up sign painting and street art in full-time fashion. Working between London and Paris (where she lives) Rachel was excited to paint in such an iconic, street art rich area of London again.
THE DESIGN
Penhaligon's fragrances always start with a story, and Bold Blend is the story of being bold and unapologetically yourself. It is meant to push the wearer out of their comfort zone; to say 'yes' before you overthink it. But this boldness always needs to start somewhere. And so, Be Bold. Start Here. was chosen as the message for the street art.
As is the way with street art, Rachel's lettering had to work with the personality of the wall; with recessed doors to work around, she laid out the mural to keep legibility and the depth of the shapes strong across the art, as well as colours that complimented the fragrance. The end result? An eye-catching, explosive mural with an impactful message to those passing by.
THE MURAL
The mural, spanning 5x8.5 metres, was hand-painted in various shades of bold blues, greys, and whites, including Rachel's signature bold blue (a perfect fit, if you think about it). With a mixture of 2D and 3D-lettering, there's a feeling of movement that reflects the message itself. Rachel and her team completed the mural in three days – and all involved were thankful for the blue skies and sunshine that made painting it a joy.
The wall can be found on Great Eastern Street, EC2A 3EJ until 23rd March. Be bold. Be quick.
