Original artwork description:

"Barrier Park Chase" is a painting by Frank Creber, created in 2012. The artwork captures a significant moment in London's recent history, particularly in the year 2000 when the city became a focal point for various projects, leading to the creation of new parks and bridges in Central and East London. Among these ventures was the development of Barrier Park, situated adjacent to the Thames Barrier on the north side of the river.

Barrier Park was designed in a modernist fashion, featuring a formal layout with hedges, plantings, and a grid of trees, surrounded by open grass areas extending to the riverbank. The park quickly became a beloved spot for locals, offering picturesque views of the majestic Thames Barrier.

Inspired by the sense of anticipation and excitement that permeated East London in 2012, the artist chose to depict a central figure of a man without a shirt, being pursued by two figures in the background, symbolising a thrilling chase. This exhilarating portrayal reflects the transformative period East London experienced as it prepared for the highly anticipated 2012 Olympics and underwent various regeneration projects, redefining the landscape of the city.

"Barrier Park Chase" stands as a visual commemoration of this decade of change, encapsulating the essence of a time when London was on the cusp of transformation, embracing its potential and creating a new narrative for the city.

Materials used:

oil paint