The story begins in the 1600s when the site was home to the Yorkshire Stingo Tavern, a bustling inn and brewery. Known for its lively atmosphere, the tavern was a favorite gathering spot for locals and visitors alike. Its name reflected its connection to Yorkshire natives in London, who would congregate here annually for three days every May. The term “Stingo” was 18th-century slang for strong ale, a nod to the establishment’s reputation for robust brews.

Beyond its ales, the Yorkshire Stingo was a venue for entertainment and leisure. It featured a tea garden, a bowling green and the Apollo Saloon Music Hall. The tavern hosted grand events, including the ascent of hot air balloons in the 1830s and the first omnibus service connecting it to the Bank of England in 1829. By the mid-19th century, however, its pleasure gardens and tavern had fallen out of fashion. The site was repurposed as public baths and washhouses, boasting two swimming pools and over 100 baths. The Yorkshire Stingo was closed and demolished in 1964 as part of demolition work prior to the development of the Westway flyover.

Bex Simon’s sculpture honors this rich history with towering four-meter-high forged metal hop plants, representing the tavern’s brewing heritage. These textured, hammered leaves serve as a vibrant reminder of the site’s origins and the thriving social hub it once was.

As London expanded, so too did the role of the site. By the early 20th century, the Yorkshire Stingo Tavern was replaced with Marylebone Magistrates’ Court, later known as Westminster Magistrates’ Court. Over the years, this courthouse has handled some of the city’s most high-profile cases, solidifying its place in London’s judicial history.

Simon’s There and Now reflects this transformation, seamlessly blending motifs of the justice system with nods to the city’s identity. The design encapsulates the site’s journey from a place of leisure to one of law and order, linking past and present in a visually stunning way.

The sculpture is a celebration not only of the site’s history but also of London’s identity and community spirit. Winding through the artwork is a representation of the River Thames, a lifeline of the city. The outline of the O2 Arena adds a contemporary touch, connecting the area’s storied past to its modern vibrancy.

Community involvement is at the heart of the design. Acrylic panels within the sculpture showcase artwork created by students from two local schools, adding a creative and youthful energy. In a remarkable collaboration, offenders at Coldingley Prison crafted a fully functional QR code sculpture that allows visitors to delve deeper into the site’s story, emphasising themes of rehabilitation and second chances.

This fusion of historical storytelling, artistic innovation, and community collaboration ensures the piece resonates with all who encounter it, inviting them to reflect on the site’s legacy and its role in London’s cultural and social fabric.

There and Now stands as a testament to the power of public art to tell complex, layered stories. From the Yorkshire Stingo’s lively beer gardens to its transformation into a hub of modern justice, the artwork celebrates the rich history embedded in Old Marylebone Road.

For passers-by, history enthusiasts and art lovers alike, this striking sculpture is more than just a visual delight. It is an invitation to connect with the past, appreciate the present and imagine the future of this dynamic corner of London.