Explore Station Hill’s Public Art

If you live or work in Reading — or are one of the many who pass through Reading Station each day — you may have noticed some striking new additions to the Station Hill area in recent months.
Since February, a series of vibrant sculptures and murals have transformed the space into a public art trail that’s already attracted thousands of curious visitors.
The artworks, created primarily by local artists or artists with a local connection, were specially commissioned to reflect the creativity and spirit of the community. Together, they form a colourful and inspiring route for residents, workers and visitors to explore.
Want to learn more about the artists and the stories behind the pieces?

Seed
Created by artists Rachael Champion and Jonathan Trayte, Seed was inspired by the horticultural history of Sutton’s Seeds in 19th-century Reading. The sculpture depicts the microscopic texture of a marigold seed.
Reflecting the legacy of Reading as an exceptional place, seeds are powerful metaphors for potential, growth and transformation.
The surface of the plinth is embellished with nine bronze reliefs depicting a variety of magnified seed textures. The nine seeds which have been included were selected by Reading’s residents through a public engagement call-out; participants were asked to suggest a seed to represent this extraordinary town, and some have been incorporated into the final design.

Pivotal
Pivotal is a monumental kinetic artwork inspired by flags, that marks a new, bright and creative era for Reading. Created by the talented artistic duo of Mark Nixon and Viliina Koivisto, known as NEON, the sculpture is composed of 73 brightly coloured fins that are rotated around the pole, representing a flag moving in the wind.
Each fin has a kinetic surface. The changeability of the wind will mean that this artwork will behave differently from moment to moment. Those passing through Station Hill at night will also be able to spot the artwork dramatically transforming with animated lighting built into the core of each fin.

Royals, Residents & a Rock Festival
Created by local artists Stuart Melrose and Kev Munday, the Royals, Residents & a Rock Festival mural outside Reading Station offers a playful tribute to Reading, filled with references to the people, places, and stories that define the town.
Look closely and you will be able to spot a mix of well-known celebrities such as Kate Winslet and Ricky Gervais, as well as figures who have contributed to Reading’s identity like scientist Dr. Ethlywn Trewevas and table tennis champion Matthew Syed.
Drawing on community input, the mural features vibrant illustrations and highlights local landmarks. It also animates throughout the year, bringing attention to key events and celebrations on the calendar.