New landmark artwork unveiled in the heart of Bristol

“Our Common Ground” by artist Oshii transforms Centre Promenade into a bold celebration of heritage, identity and unity

Bristol has a powerful new landmark. Our Common Ground, a monumental street-level artwork by multidisciplinary artist Oshii, has been officially completed in the city centre, reimagining the busy Centre Promenade as a vibrant space for cultural connection, reflection and pride.

Spanning more than 700 square metres, the vivid mural is now a striking feature of the city’s public realm. Its unveiling marks a major milestone in the transformation of Bristol’s central spaces, placing African heritage and community voices at the heart of civic life.

Commissioned and funded by Bristol City Council and Bristol City Centre Business Improvement District (BID), and curated by Bristol Legacy Foundation, the project was realised with production support from Upfest Projects.

Our Common Ground reimagines the promenade through bold colour, layered symbolism and stories drawn directly from community voices. At its centre lies a striking emblem: the word “Bristol” inscribed within a heart, surrounded by masks, eyes, hands and rhythmic African patterns. Together, they speak to resilience, visibility and belonging, a bold declaration of presence in the city’s most public space.

The final design was shaped by months of public engagement, inviting residents and local organisations to respond to early concepts and contribute to its development. The themes of resilience, memory and connection are grounded in community input and now made visible on a grand civic scale.