Eastwood street gains splash of colour with new mural

Designed and painted by artist Nathan Bainbridge (Small Kid/Kid 30 (Opens in a new window)) with some help from Ben Packer (Kaption1 (Opens in a new window)), the mural depicts a portrait of Lawrence alongside a phoenix in a stained-glass window style – a tribute to the cover of Lady Chatterley’s Lover, arguably the author’s most well-known work.

Completing the final touches of the artwork is the dates of his birth and death, coupled with a quote from Lawrence, ‘The living moment is everything.’

The mural sits at the entry to Victoria Street Car Park, just a few doors down from his first home at the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum, where Bertie was born 141 years ago.

Artist Nathan Bainbridge said, “It’s been a great project to be involved in. It’s been interesting researching D.H. Lawrence, his work, and his connection to Eastwood. We’ve had lots of interesting chats with local residents, and the mural has been well received. The sun even managed to come out for a few days while we were painting. Many thanks to Finley for his help on this project.”

Portfolio Holder for Health and Leisure, Councillor Teresa Cullen, added, “Art can make a world of difference to a space, and to people’s mood – as shown in the museum’s current exhibition, ‘Effect of Art on Happiness’ by Janet Shipton – and this mural is a fantastic example of that.

“Lawrence is adored by many in Eastwood, and this street art will bring a great deal of joy to those people, and indeed others.

“The piece brightens up the street massively, and it’s wonderful to have it so close to Lawrence’s birthplace – we’re so thankful to Nathan and Ben for creating such an incredible mural.”

Mayor of the East Midlands, Clair Ward, said, “UKSPF has been an important funding stream for local investment and I am pleased it has continued this year while the government plans for its replacement. The £25 million we have received will sustain investment into towns, cities and villages across the region.

“This will support economic growth, through both the jobs that support community-led services and the physical regeneration of our town and village centres, projects which strengthen local pride and make our high streets more vibrant places to visit and enjoy.

“It’s fantastic to see this striking new mural celebrating D. H. Lawrence in the very place where his story began. It’s a brilliant way to honour Eastwood’s literary heritage while bringing new colour and creativity to the town centre. Projects like this show how culture and regeneration can go hand in hand, attracting visitors, while giving residents even more reason to feel proud of where they live.”

The D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum is where the literary legend was born on 11 September 1885. Only 30 minutes from Nottingham city centre, the museum is a must see for fans of literature, and for those wanting to delve deeper into Nottingham’s literary heritage.

Step back in time to experience the traditional Victorian wash house, see the parlour; a room only for special guests, and have a wander around the parental and other bedrooms. The museum’s permanent exhibition features items from Lawrence’s family and even paintings created by the author himself.

Find out more about what’s on and plan your visit on the D.H. Lawrence Birthplace Museum webpage.

This project received £5,400 from East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA) from funding provided by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF).

The UK Shared Prosperity Fund is providing £25.17 million of funding for local investment across Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire in 2025/26. This funding, distributed by the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), aims to boost pride in place and increase life chances in the region. The investment will focus on supporting communities and businesses, as well as developing skills for individuals.

Broxtowe Borough Council has been allocated a total of £1,056,720 in 2025/6. Activity funded includes local business and skills support and a set of community projects