Portman Marylebone Partners with Artist Andy Leek Encouraging Visitors to the Area to ‘Find the Words’

Portman Marylebone has partnered with renowned street artist Andy Leek to deliver an Autumn of public art that will spread optimism and joy across the 110-acre neighbourhood of Portman Marylebone nestled just behind Oxford Street.

The ‘Find The Words’, art trail designed by Andy Leek is an area-wide art installation integrated into the urban landscape. As visitors wander the streets of Portman Marylebone, they will discover Andy Leek’s artworks of unique notes of positivity, inspiration and warmth, from large scale installations to smaller more subtle pieces, encouraging discovery.

From bunting down Old Quebec Street, laser cut installations on Portman Square Garden and George Street to plant installations in George’s Pocket Park and shop signs that seamlessly integrate down New Quebec Street and Seymour Place, every corner has a story to tell and a new piece of artwork to discover.
Andy commented “As my residency unfolds in Portman Marylebone, my artwork will be installed throughout the neighbourhood for people to stumble upon, hopefully creating some moments of delight. It’s my first time collaborating with Portman Marylebone which is full of wonderful nooks and crannies, beautiful architecture and existing artworks that I’m excited to add to.”

During his residency in Portman Marylebone, from October, Andy Leek, widely recognised for his Notes to Strangers – will place limited edition, hand-written notes in select stores, delivering unexpected and uplifting messages to takeaway. To unlock a collectable note, visitors to the area are invited to ask in participating stores “Can you help me find the words?”.

As an exciting continuation of his residency, Andy has also designed colourful bandanas for dogs with positive words of affirmation that will be available for visitors to the area to collect from a selection of dog friendly businesses in the area, allowing four legged friends to also be part of the artful experience too.

Visitors and art fans are encouraged to capture these evocative messages and artworks and share their discoveries with the world. By using the campaign hashtag #FindTheWords they’ll join a collective appreciation and spread the positivity even further.

Andy Leek’s residency will run through the Autumn from Tuesday 12 September 2023 until Sunday 29 October 2023.