Excel London has capped off its 25th anniversary celebrations by unveiling a special new photo mosaic – made up of more than 7,000 individual images – that pays tribute to people throughout the events industry. 

Created by London-based artist Helen Marshall, of the People’s Picture and famous for her large-scale photo mosaics including of Queen Elizabeth II, the piece stands at an impressive 30sqm and features images inspired by people’s memories and connections to Excel. 

The permanent new installation is entitled ‘Face to Face: Connecting Lives’ and is made up of thousands of images sent in by event organisers, exhibitors, suppliers, partners and, of course, visitors. 

As well as submitting images, people could also share a short explanation of their connection with Excel to help inspire the artist with the final overall image.  

In homage to London’s historic Royal Docks and Excel’s home for the past 25 years, the final image chosen was a replica of Edward Stanford’s hand-coloured Map of London from 1872. 

On display to all visitors, the piece is located in Excel’s newly opened expansion, an additional 25,0000sqm which now sees Excel total 125,000sqm, becoming the largest fully integrated venue in Europe.  

James Rees, Excel’s Executive Director, commented: “We wanted to do something special to not only mark our 25th anniversary but to also celebrate and pay tribute to everyone who makes our industry what it is today - from event organisers and exhibitors to suppliers, partners, visitors and, of course, our very own Excel staff. Our entire industry is about connecting people face to face and this piece embodies that very concept.”

He added: “Excel has proudly sat at the heart of London’s historic Royal Docks and its ongoing regeneration for 25 years, helping to bring global trade back to this area – only instead of trading tea and spices, we’re now trading in ideas and innovation.” 

Artist Helen Marshall added: “It’s been a privilege to create this artwork, especially as an artist who has been living and working in East London for 20 years, and I’m so glad to see the finished piece on display for the millions of Excel visitors to admire. It’s also been very enjoyable reading some of the diverse back stories behind the images people have submitted and learning how Excel has become a place for people to connect, learn, network, share ideas and, of course, have fun.” 

Opened in 2000, today Excel hosts some of the most influential trade, sporting, medical and immersive events, attracting close to six million visitors a year and contributing £4.6 billion to London’s business tourism economy.  

To view the artwork online and read some of the highlighted stories click here