Award-winning cultural initiative Art of London has partnered with internationally acclaimed artist Mr Doodle to launch a unique public art experience across London’s West End this summer.
Bringing Mr Doodle’s creative universe to the capital’s cultural centre, Mr Doodle’s Doodle Discovery will feature five specially commissioned sculptures adorned with original Mr Doodle artworks inspired by the people, places and cultural landmarks that define the area – from film, theatre and food to art and community.
Launching in late July, in time for the summer holidays, visitors will set off on a playful adventure through Piccadilly Circus, Leicester Square and St James’s Market, discovering colourful Mr Doodle creations along the way. Set against a backdrop of world-class galleries, theatres, restaurants, cafés, shops and cultural destinations, the trail offers the perfect basis for a full, jam-packed day out exploring one of London’s richest cultural neighbourhoods.
The experience will launch with a special public event, Doodle with Mr Doodle!, where visitors can take part in an interactive doodling workshop led by Mr Doodle. Participants can contribute ideas and doodles to inspire the artwork featured on one of the sculptures, which Mr Doodle will complete live as part of the launch.
The initiative responds to growing demand for cultural experiences that bring people together as recent research from Arts Council England[1] shows that 75% of parents believe visits to museums and galleries are important for family bonding and recreation, highlighting the role accessible cultural experiences can play in creating meaningful shared moments.
Known worldwide for transforming everything from sketchbooks to entire buildings with his signature doodle style, Mr Doodle (Sam Cox) has become one of contemporary art’s most recognisable artists. His playful approach has attracted a global following and inspired new ways for people to engage with art through participation, creativity and imagination.
Mr Doodle, Artist, said: “I’m really excited to be partnering with Art of London and bringing my doodle world to the West End. The doodles on each sculpture have been inspired by the creativity and character that make this part of London so special. I hope the trail encourages people of all ages to explore, be creative and have fun!”
Kirsty Tullett-Jones, Director of Marketing & Communications at Art of London, said: “The summer holidays are all about making memories, and we wanted to create something that’s free, joyful and fun for everyone. Mr Doodle’s Doodle Discovery transforms a visit to the West End into an adventure, inviting people to explore and see familiar places through fresh eyes. We hope the trail becomes one of those experiences that makes summer in the West End feel even more magical.”
To encourage exploration, each sculpture will feature a QR code linking visitors to a digital trail map, additional content and exclusive experiences along the route. Visitors who complete the trail will also have the opportunity to enter a prize draw featuring family-friendly experiences from Art of London partners, including tickets to the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition and a meal for a family of four, alongside the chance to receive a Mr Doodle colouring book as a creative keepsake and enter a prize draw to win.
The initiative forms part of Art of London’s ongoing commitment to celebrating the world-class arts, culture, entertainment and creativity that make the West End one of London’s most exciting destinations.
More details about the trail, including how to register for free tickets to the live launch event with Mr Doodle, alongside inspiration for summer days out in the West End, including family-friendly itineraries, cultural experiences, and Kids Eat Free offers, will be available at artoflondon.co.uk.