Rainbow Mosaic of Hope Brightens the Screens of Piccadilly Lights

‘The People’s Picture’ has launched a giant interactive rainbow mosaic of hope on London’s Piccadilly Lights made up of thousands of NHS staff, key workers and carers combined with the nation’s pictures with the messages 'Every picture tells a story, what’s yours? Be creative, stay well, and Thanks to the NHS'.

The mosaic, by British artist Helen Marshall, highlights stories from across the nation, featuring doctors, nurses, carers, patients and families. 12,456 pictures and stories have been collected so far. Once finished, the work will be viewed as a giant interactive online for people to read and delve into the stories of thousands of lives at the NHS, key workers and carers and those in lockdown. Helen said: “As an artist I was really moved by the collective creative response of the nation to the pandemic, and like everybody else I wanted to do something. I particularly wanted the NHS staff, key workers and carers stories to be highlighted. By collecting thousands of photos, videos and stories, I have created one giant interactive rainbow mosaic during my time in lockdown.”

Landsec and Ocean Outdoor have collaborated to donate the screen, building on their community engagement programme which has continued throughout the coronavirus pandemic. The installation appears until 28th June with hourly 40 second dominations. ‘Rainbows for the NHS’ has been welcomed by the NHS.

Martin Machray, joint chief nurse for the NHS in London said: "This is an inclusive and safe way for the nation to connect and thank our NHS, key workers and carers through art. It’s wonderful to have so many images and people represented; each an individual story of hope and testament to this important moment in history."

Derek Manns, Landsec commercial media manager, added: “Throughout the pandemic, the Piccadilly Lights have been at the centre of London’s salute to our frontline NHS workers carrying a number of important messages and brilliant campaigns. The screen has become a beacon of hope and we are delighted to continue that work with The People’s Picture and the NHS.”   

"From Her Majesty the Queen and Sir Captain Tom Moore to all the messages of hope and solidarity carried by our advertisers, the NHS rainbow mosaic is another inspirational moment of togetherness to mark the resilience and spirit of London.” said Rosalyn Mackway, Ocean Outdoor business director, brand partnerships.

Previous photo mosaic tributes by Helen Marshall and the People’s Picture have ranged from the Face of WW1 the centenary of the outbreak of World War One and The People’s Monarch celebrating Queen Elizabeth’s Diamond Jubilee, to the Face of Suffrage marking the 100th anniversary of British women getting the vote, The People’s Moon giant lunar art across Times Square and the Kennedy Space Centre, and numerous community and corporate commissions.