Scene in London: How it started, who's behind it and what's the mission

Hello, I'm Samantha, the founder of Scene in London.

I'm a born and raised Londoner (from Wandsworth, Tooting, Croydon to Sutton) and have worked in the design industry for over 15 years. 

I began working on Scene in London in 2019, merging my passion for art and the diverse communities that make up the city. I design original artwork and run creative projects that celebrate the unique character of London's neighbourhoods, in the hope to better connect people to the place they call home. 

Thornton Heath is where it all began. I was volunteering for the local community action team. From litter picking, flower planting and creating anti flytipping posters for the High Street and local parks.

I organised an art competition to design lamp post banners. With funding secured for 10 lamp post banners, entries came from local residents, including artist, BareFace (left) and FreeArt who worked with a local refugee centre (right). The theme was to share positivity in Thornton Heath. 

Anti littering campaign. I organised another art competition for the local community to design posters for the belly bins along the High Street. This poster was designed by local sisters, Kayleigh and Anastasia.

The brand has evolved from my interest in improving my local area and I have continued to give back to local communities. I regularly donate artwork to charities, hospitals and care homes and run workshops with youth and community groups.

At the core of Scene in London is community. Whether it's championing key neighbourhood landmarks through art prints and greeting cards, delivering creative workshops to help bring communities together at local venues, or showcasing work at public markets. I believe a sense of pride for our neighbourhoods is crucial to forming happy and healthy communities.

I use mixed media to design my artwork, including watercolour painting, sketching, iPad drawing and Photoshop. My range is currently very South London heavy, but I'm making my way around the rest of London :)

I also offer custom commissions, creating artwork that is tailored to your specific vision or needs. This service is popular with businesses looking for a particular art piece (front of house, waiting area) and for individuals looking for a special celebratory piece (anniversary or housewarming gift).

I sell my designs predominantly online. However, do keep an eye on my events page, as I also sell at markets and have the odd exhibition. I also have work available in some beautiful stores. You'll be able to find my stockist list here.

Each design is created in my South London studio and printed locally.

Artwork and drawing equipment on my desk.



Organising prints in my studio.

During my design career, I have had the privilege of working with The Royal Academy of Arts, The London Transport Museum, The British Museum, Dulwich Picture Gallery, and The Fashion and Textile Museum, Towner Gallery, London Design Festival, The Affordable Art Fair, and Stanley Arts. 

These partnerships reflect my commitment to design, delivering projects that not only celebrate London’s rich history and culture but also contribute to its ongoing creative evolution.

Running poster printing workshops at the London Transport Museum.

In addition to my work with galleries and creative spaces, I have also been involved in several public projects. I have produced work for Wandsworth Council and Croydon Council, contributing to initiatives that promote local culture, community spirit, and a sense of place. 

At the annual Happy Streets Festival in Wandsworth with the Mayor of Wandsworth, Sana Jafri.