The Dawood street art commission is on display in Chelsea.
Multidisciplinary artist Shezad Dawood has created Cascade, and it has been unveiled on the historic King’s Road in Chelsea, London. Dawood’s artwork is part of the restoration of the 1934 Art Deco Gaumont building.
The building’s renovation includes partnerships with creative brands. Now, it features residential flats, office space, a Curzon cinema, and a rooftop bar. The façade of the building hosts Dawood’s permanent public commission, Cascade, positioned prominently at the front.
The inspiration behind the piece draws on a range of motifs and narratives across time. The themes are all connected to lunar and celestial themes. Also influencing the work are the interlinked histories of painting, cinema, and literature associated with the local area.
Dawood recalls seeing The Seven Samurai with his father at the former Chelsea Cinema, which was once located on the same site as the Gaumont — an experience that left a lasting impression and informed his connection to the space. He explains: “With every public commission I do, it’s important to research the social and cultural fabric of an area and discuss ideas with local residents and stakeholders. I wanted something that would add to the viewer’s experience with each viewing, hence the idea to use relief ceramic — to have a work that would dance according to the changing light and movement of the sun as it plays upon it and reflects off it.”
“It does feel overwhelming to have Cascade on permanent public display. Seeing it go up and then be unveiled was heart-stopping. I’ve always been inspired by Barbara Hepworth’s Winged Figure on the side of John Lewis on Oxford Street, and to have a work of mine on a similar London landmark is humbling.”
Dawood will also bring his work to Abu Dhabi, UAE in November 2025. He is part of The Manar Light Festival, which will bring together more than 35 artworks.
Cascade is on display at The Gaumont, 196–222 King’s Road, London.
GO: Visit https://shezaddawood.com for more information.