News Mary Quant Mural Time-Lapse
At Time-Lapse Systems we document a range of exciting projects all over the UK and internationally. Our work is varied and we work across a range of different genres. Recently, we were asked to capture a 40ft mural celebrating the cultural legacy of Chelsea icon Dame Mary Quant, which has been unveiled at 31 King’s Road. Created by renowned typographic artist Alan Kitching and commissioned by Cadogan, the mural draws inspiration from Quant’s witty declaration, ‘Fashion is not frivolous, it is part of being alive today.’
The mural was created to pay homage to Quant’s fashion legacy and impact on the Chelsea area. Chief Executive of Cadogan, Hugh Seaborn, commented ‘Dame Mary Quant’s legacy revolutionised global fashion and cemented Chelsea’s place at the heart of it. Her words perfectly capture the vibrant spirit of the King’s Road today.’
Mary Quant was a British fashion designer who played a pivotal role in the 1960s fashion scene. Born on February 11, 1930, in London, she studied illustration at Goldsmiths College. Quant opened her first boutique, Bazaar, on King’s Road in 1955, where she began selling her own designs.
Quant is often credited with popularising the miniskirt, which became a symbol of the 1960s youth culture. Her designs reflected the vibrant and rebellious spirit of the decade. She drew inspiration from the street styles of London, creating clothes that were both accessible and revolutionary. The miniskirt, which she is most famously associated with, challenged traditional norms and allowed women more freedom of movement.
In addition to the miniskirt, Quant introduced hot pants, colourful tights, and PVC raincoats, further pushing the boundaries of contemporary fashion. Her designs were characterised by their simplicity and practicality, often featuring bold colours and geometric patterns. Quant’s influence extended beyond clothing; she launched a successful line of makeup in the 1960s, which included the first waterproof mascara.
Quant’s contributions to fashion were recognised with numerous awards. She was appointed Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1966 and Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE) in 2015 for her services to British fashion.
Mary Quant’s impact on fashion is enduring. Her innovative approach and willingness to break with tradition helped to shape the modern fashion landscape, making her one of the most influential designers of the 20th century.
This mural, was unveiled by Mary’s son Orlando Plunket Greene, and also marks the start of Kensington + Chelsea Art Week, celebrating creativity across the Royal Borough. Heather Tilbury Phillips, former Director of Mary Quant, stated ‘Mary often avoided personal attention, but loved seeing her name in lights. This mural is a perfect tribute to her incredible contribution to global fashion and huge impact on London’s cultural scene.’
This installation will form part of Cadogan’s The Gaumont ‘creative quarter’ development which will see a Chelsea cinema, retail spaces, creative spaces and contemporary office accommodation at the world famous King’s Road. We were asked to document the entirety of this project, showing the story of its development.
We work extensively in the London area on a range of different projects such as iconic city centre buildings such as The Royal Albert Hall, property development, infrastructure, education facilities amongst many, many others.
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