Fulham Pier has announced a major new cultural moment for London’s riverside, unveiling a large-scale public art installation by independent contemporary artist Sophie Tea. Titled Under the Pier, the commission marks Tea’s first-ever solo public artwork and signals a significant step from digital art influence into large-scale public realm installation.
The installation launches on 1 June 2026 and will run until October, free to visit daily, kicking off Fulham Pier’s wider culture-led summer programme along the Thames.
A Major Public Art Moment on the Thames
Set within one of London’s most distinctive riverside destinations, Fulham Pier continues its ambition to blend contemporary culture with everyday public life.
Under the Pier will span 18 architectural beams along the riverside walk, transforming the space into a vivid, immersive interpretation of the British seaside. The installation will also extend onto adjacent walls, combining bold painted works with sculptural 3D seaside elements.
From seagulls in flight and painted sailing boats to striped deckchairs and coastal motifs, the work reimagines a nostalgic seaside escape — reframed through Tea’s contemporary, community-driven visual language.
Reimagining the British Seaside in London
The concept draws directly from the atmosphere of a classic UK coastal getaway, but reinterprets it within Fulham Pier’s riverside setting. With views across the Thames, passing rowers, and long summer sunsets, the installation is designed to encourage visitors to slow down and engage with the environment differently.
It reflects Fulham Pier’s wider ethos: blending culture, leisure, and wellbeing in a space that feels both urban and escapist at once.
Sophie Tea’s First Public Commission
For Sophie Tea, the installation represents a milestone moment in a career built largely outside traditional gallery systems. With a social following of over two million, Tea has become known for translating digital engagement into real-world artistic communities.
She said:
“Creating a public installation has been on my goal list on the fridge for over a decade because democratising access to art is something I believe in at my core. As a completely independent artist without traditional gallery backing, I’ve always known that reaching that goal would take a different path so bringing this work to life at Fulham Pier feels incredibly special. This is an important moment for me, and for a new generation of independent artists who are redefining what it means to be a modern-day artist.”
The project has been developed in collaboration with creative studio New Public, reinforcing a shared ambition to make contemporary art more accessible and embedded within everyday environments.
Fulham Pier’s Vision for Culture-Led Summers
According to Fulham Pier Director Glen Sutton, the installation is designed to enhance the seasonal experience of the riverside:
“There’s something special about summer at Fulham Pier – the long sunny days, the river, the way people spend time here. I’m excited to see Sophie’s installation running through the Pier as part of that experience, adding a playful cultural layer for people to enjoy.”
The artwork follows a previous installation by artist and designer Yinka Ilori and forms part of a rotating public art programme that brings contemporary creativity directly into the public realm.
A Packed Summer Programme Alongside the Artwork
The installation launches alongside Fulham Pier’s wider summer season, which includes a mix of free and affordable cultural programming for all ages.
Highlights include:
- Summer markets and live music sessions
- DJ takeovers, family raves, and roller discos
- Funfair-style games and open-mic nights
- Interactive digital art installations indoors
- Mudlarking exhibitions exploring the river’s history
For visitors seeking slower experiences, the programme also includes:
- Secret film screenings
- Wellness sessions including sound healing and breathwork
- Jewellery and craft workshops
- Community mornings and a wellness summit
Food, Drink and Riverside Dining
Alongside the cultural programme, Fulham Pier continues to develop its food and drink offering.
- Brasserie Constance, curated by Michelin-starred chef Adam Byatt, delivers refined yet relaxed riverside dining with panoramic Thames views
- Flo Bar offers cocktails and sunset drinks overlooking the water
- Riverside Market, London’s only riverside food hall, brings together a rotating line-up of global street food vendors, coffee, and drinks
Together, they position Fulham Pier as both a cultural and culinary destination for summer 2026.
Visit Information
Under the Pier will be on display at Fulham Pier from 1 June 2026 to October 2026, free and open to the public daily.
More information on Fulham Pier’s programming can be found via their official website: Fulham Pier Official Site