The Lanes, Brighton, has lost a beloved piece of street art, leaving locals and visitors alike perplexed. The iconic artwork, a vibrant neon-colored postage stamp featuring The Prince Regent, George IV, by the renowned local artist duo The Postman, vanished from its usual spot on Hanningtons Lane on Monday, January 12th.
This unique piece was a popular attraction, often featured in walking tours and beloved by tourists for its memorable selfies. Residents, including Freya Springham, are now curious about its disappearance, especially given its significance in the area.
The artwork was previously attached to the back wall of The Olive Grove, a Greek restaurant that closed a year ago. The building is currently under construction and has been cordoned off with hoardings. The Postman, in a statement to The Argus, revealed that the artwork was removed as part of the renovations for a new business venture.
The Postman, known for their colorful pop-art murals and paste-ups of music and film icons, had previously bid farewell to a music wall on Gak, a North Laine music shop that closed after 30 years. They managed to save some of the works, auctioning them off.
George IV, known for his extravagant lifestyle, left a lasting impact on Brighton by building the Royal Pavilion, his seaside retreat during the Regency era (1811-1820) and reign (1820-1830). The disappearance of this artwork has sparked curiosity and a desire to uncover its new location, leaving the community wondering what the future holds for The Lanes' beloved street art.
