Soho's hidden art: uncovered

Karl Marx and some colourful pigeons

Soho is one of the buzziest parts of Central London, brimming with restaurants, theatres, galleries, and people. There’s plenty of art in plain sight and some more hidden away that you may not be aware of. I’ve collected some of my favourites here — next time you’re in the area, why not add one (or more) of these to your plans…

A massive mural

The Spirit of Soho mural was created in 1991 on the corner of Broadwick and Carnaby Street, and while it’s hard to miss, have you stopped to check out all of its details?

The map at the top contains many recognisable landmarks including Liberty’s and Chinatown and the side panels contain local destinations like the Palladium theatre and jazz bar Ronnie Scott’s. At the bottom are some local historic figures including William Blake and Karl Marx (with the latter sipping a Coke can when the mural is activated on the hour) and the lovers opera singer Teresa Cornelys and Casanova shown exchanging a wink and a kiss - though the mechanism hasn’t always been working when I’ve walked past it.

Below the paywall:

• Fast walking

• Art in small spaces

• Outdoor photography

• The birds are watching