Two artists have come together to create a mural dedicated to the literary history of Newbury.
Situated on a wall inside GAIL’s Bakery on Mansion House Street, the new mural was inspired by Newbury-born author Michael Bond and depicts a flowering orange tree – sat alongside is a miniature Paddington Bear.
Artist Anna Lawrence and Samantha Clarke at Gails
Local artists Samantha Clarke and Anna Lawrence designed the mural as a heartfelt tribute to to the town’s rich history, incorporating the fruit into the artwork as a subtle nod to the infamous marmalade sandwiches enjoyed by Paddington bear.
The idea for the artwork was a collaboration between bakery manager, Kate, and Mrs Clarke, who both wanted to create something meaningful that celebrated Newbury’s character while also giving greater visibility to local creative talent.
Artist Anna Lawrence and Samantha Clarke at Gails
Mrs Clarke is the founder of nearby Restyled by SLC in The Arcade, where she transforms pre-loved furniture into one-of-a-kind pieces.
Being part of the mural-making process was a chance for her to give something back to the town, having lived in Newbury for more than 25 years, and to the high street that has supported her business.
The mural inside the bakery
Speaking on the importance of bringing people together, she said: “For me, community is about supporting each other – local people, businesses and the creativity that brings us together.”
Anna Lawrence is an artist and local business owner who runs The Swan Inn in Newtown.
Originally trained in fashion and design in Slovakia, she moved to the UK more than 21 years ago and has called Newbury home for the past 15 years.
Artist Anna Lawrence and Samantha Clarke at Gails
Her work is inspired by storytelling, public art, and the natural beauty of the local area.
She also runs painting workshops, helping people embrace their creativity in a relaxed and supportive way.
For Mrs Lawrence, the project was an opportunity to bring together history, public art, and the community she is part of every day.
Artist Anna Lawrence and Samantha Clarke at Gail’s
She said: “Community is the backbone of everything I do – it’s about supporting one another so local businesses and creatives can thrive together.”
The team at the bakery said it has been lovely to see how much warmth the mural has already created – from customers stopping to ask about the story behind it and families taking photos with mini Paddington.
Following the creation of the mural, the GAIL’s team has asked to hear from people, groups or businesses in Newbury who have ideas about how it can support or take part in community moments in the future.