Londoner #391 | Paola - how art transforms public spaces
Paola is a designer and community leader based in London who has been Chair of the Friends of Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens for over eight years. This short documentary film tells the story of her creative contribution to one of Wandsworth’s most historic public spaces. Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens has a long history as a hub for art, performance and public gathering, dating back to the 18th century. Once a popular destination for people from all walks of life, the Gardens inspired artists such as Thomas Rowlandson, who depicted scenes of society enjoying leisure and entertainment. Today, the park continues to serve as an important community space in London. In the film, Paola shares how her initial design for an invitation evolved into a logo and later into two large sculptures now installed in the park. The sculptures, a young man offering a flower to an 18th-century lady, represent a visual conversation between past and present. Their presence on the columns encourages visitors to reflect on the site's heritage and ongoing relevance in the Wandsworth community. The documentary captures the process of installing the sculptures and explores how local design, historical awareness and community involvement come together in urban spaces. Vauxhall Pleasure Gardens remains a lively area with events, nightlife and everyday gatherings, shaped by the people who care for it.