Cyril’s memories of Waterloo, reimagined through art

Cyril Johnson has worked in Waterloo for more than two decades, and now his memories have been captured in artform by the talented Victoria Long, student at Morley College London.

Cyril Johnson has worked at Elizabeth House, adjacent to Waterloo Station since April 2000. A security supervisor, Cyril has been responsible for keeping the building, and those working in and around it, safe.

Since then, Cyril has watched the area transform, but one thing that has remained is his love for his work. Cyril has patrolled the area overnight, on Christmas Day and at the weekends, always warmly welcoming visitors to Elizabeth House.

Reflecting on his best moments from the past two decades, he said:

“To me, every day is a good day. When you work somewhere for more than 20 years it becomes more than a job, it is like my home – I fit in here.”

Cyril and Postcards from Waterloo

Cyril is part of the local community who inspired Postcards from Waterloo, a campaign launched to celebrate Waterloo, Lambeth and the wider area.

In collaboration with Morley College London, we’re unearthing memories of Waterloo to be reimagined into portraits or illustrations. These unique pieces of artwork will then be displayed in a celebratory exhibition in July 2023 at Morley Gallery.

Victoria Long of Studio Long, is studying Advanced Painting at Morley College London, and was selected to translate Cyril’s memories of Waterloo into art. Victoria connected with Cyril as the portrait progressed. She said:

“It was a pleasure to meet Cyril and hear about his experiences in the Waterloo area. I was especially taken with his tales of Eurostar passengers and his affection for the graffiti in Leake Street tunnel. He’s a generous and reliable person, and has clearly been an anchor at Elizabeth House. I was glad to have the opportunity to paint his portrait”.

The result is an exceptional piece that showcases Cyril’s story. The clock references the passing of time, while bearing symbols of central London. The 159 bus refers to Cyril’s journey into Waterloo while the colours represent Leake Street tunnel. The blues and soft greens are also a subtle nod to Waterloo Station and the river Thames. In amongst it all is Cyril’s portrait, smiling wistfully at the memories he has made over time.

“It’s a lovely painting and I will cherish it forever. Once I have retired I will be able to look at it and remember the wonderful area I worked in for so long.

“Waterloo has changed so much in the time I’ve worked here, and I’m excited to see what the future brings for the site where Elizabeth House sits, and the opportunity it brings for the area.”

Want to receive a piece of art, inspired by your memories?

If you’d like to receive a bespoke piece of hand-crafted art, inspired by your own stories, submit your Postcards of Waterloo today.

Find out more here, or apply via the form below.*

*Terms and conditions apply. Read here.

Don’t forget!

The competition will close at 5pm on Friday 28^th April.

Know someone who prefers to put pen to paper? Memories can also be submitted via postboxes located in the entrance of Morley College.

For any questions related to your entry, drop us a message to onewaterloo@hbreavis.com. Get involved in the campaign on social media, using the hashtag #PostcardsfromWaterloo