Mosaic dedicated to Irish community unveiled in Islington

A mosaic artwork celebrating the contributions of Irish residents to the community has been unveiled by Islington Council in Archway.

The mosaic was created by artist Maud Milton and features traditional Celtic art, symbols associated with Ireland and with references to the contributions of Irish residents to the local area.

Archway is of particular historic significance for the Irish community, as many generations of Irish Londoners have made their home there. Navigator Square takes its name from the Irish ‘navvies’– construction workers who moved to England in the 19th Century - who settled there. The nearby Whittington Hospital is also known to have employed many Irish nurses.

The mosaic features tiles made by children at local primary schools St Joseph's and St John's.

Clare McFlynn, Executive Headteacher, St Joseph’s Catholic Primary School said:

“At St Joseph’s we have many staff and pupils of Irish heritage, and many more without. But the heritage in our community belongs to all of them. We were delighted to work with Islington Council on this mosaic and that the values of collaboration and community are forged both inside and outside the classroom."

The Council hopes the piece will serve to celebrate the history and culture of Islington and attract locals to Navigator Square. Navigator Square is a space for the community with a market, annual events including like Christmas lights festivals and a vinyl market to promote local venues, labels and record shops.