Artist transforms empty shops in Oxford city centre

Property consultancy Vail Williams’ Oxford-based partner Mike Watson acts for various university colleges which have portfolios of properties in the city and beyond.

He was introduced to artist Kathryn Croxson by Lincoln College, and it was agreed she could create artworks on the windows of retail premises he was marketing.

Mr Watson said: “I’m delighted with Kathryn’s unique creations.

“The paintings have created a great deal of interest and have almost become the equivalent of a Vail Williams ‘to let’ sign.

“The retail market presently is quite buoyant, but despite this, even if the vacant units are under offer and working through solicitors, there can be a delay in occupancy leaving dead frontages for a period of time.”

These voids can make the area look “a little sorry for itself,” potentially affecting other tenants’ trade and rents, Mr Watson said.

He added: “Kathryn’s creative spin on window dressing not only enriches the environment but also helps to mitigate the negative impact of a void period to some degree.

“I love what she is doing and, where appropriate, I hope to work with her across the various retail portfolios with which we are involved.”

Ms Croxson’s artwork can currently be seen on premises on High Street, Turl Street, and New Inn Hall Street.

She said: “A city such as Oxford, with its history, heritage, and passion for the arts, deserves to look at its best for shoppers, students, and visitors.

“My style is very much centred around using vivid colours and these paintings certainly brighten up our streets – especially judging by the reactions of passers-by.”

Kathryn Croxson’s painting in the window of the former All Bar One on the High Street (Image: Contributed) Kathryn Croxson’s painting in the window of the former All Bar One on the High Street (Image: Contributed) Ms Croxson has documented the painted shopfronts and said she may consider an exhibition in the future.

Hywel Morse, land agent for Lincoln College, said: “We had no hesitation in supporting this scheme to bring some colour to the city’s streets.

“It is a fantastic way of ensuring that art can be brought to the people.

“Lincoln College has been part of the fabric of Oxford for almost 600 years and we seek to give something back to the community whenever possible – this artwork is an excellent example of that.”

Australian-born Ms Croxson’s love for vivid hues and intriguing prints was ignited during her studies in graphic design, architecture, and fashion.

Her travels across Turkey, Argentina, Bolivia, and Australia further fuelled her passion for colour and unique patterns.

Last December, she and other artists transformed an empty Oxford shop into a festive scene.