Plans for Damilola Taylor memorial progress
Plans for an artwork dedicated to Damilola Taylor have taken a step forward with the appointment of a new project consultant.
The appointment comes off the back of the annual Day of Hope on December 7, which celebrated Damilola’s birthday and highlights the importance of youth activism.
New London Architecture (NLA) has partnered with Southwark council, the Damilola Taylor Trust (DTT), and Hope Collective to fundraise for and deliver the new public artwork which is set for Peckham Square.
The artwork will celebrate the enduring legacy of Damilola, honouring his family’s and the Hope Collective’s tireless efforts to inspire change for young people and communities across the UK.
Councillor Portia Mwangangye, Cabinet Member for Leisure, Parks, and Young People, said: “This project embodies the heart of Peckham – a community that values resilience, creativity, and hope.
“The new artwork will not only celebrate Damilola Taylor’s legacy but also serve as a testament to the power of unity and collaboration in shaping a brighter future for our young people.”
Damilola was 10 years old when he was stabbed to death near Peckham Library, on his way home from school on November 27, 2000.
Richard Taylor OBE, Damilola’s father, dedicated his life to campaigning against youth crime, sending out a positive message in the face of his heartbreak and the misrepresentation of deprived areas.
A former civil servant, Mr Taylor set up the Hope Collective, a collaboration between charities, organisations and local authorities to improve the lives of young people across the UK.
On December 7, 2020, the collective launched the Day of Hope in memory of Damilola.
Mr Taylor died, aged 75, on March 23, after battling prostate cancer.
Tunde Taylor, chair of the DTT, said: “On behalf of the DTT I am excited to see this project progressing.
“We were so sad to lose my father earlier this year but we know how proud he was of the legacy of hope for young people the work of the Trust had created.
“We are grateful to have such creative talent now leading things forward”.
The Peckham Square Public Art Project will run throughout 2025, with the final design unveiling scheduled for the Day of Hope on December 7, 2025.
NLA will partner with the Peckham Square design team to ensure the artwork fits in with the broader landscape.
Rosa Rogina, head of collaborate at NLA, said: “By engaging young people at every stage of this project, we aim to ensure that the final artwork reflects the vibrant history and aspirations of the Peckham community.
“We look forward to contributing to an inspiring and inclusive commissioning process that honours the past while looking boldly to the future.”
Pictured top: A CGI image of Peckham Square, where the new public artwork will be based (Picture: Southwark council)