Tag: Axel Scheffler

5114. River Avon (41)

Haka, River Avon, Bristol, March 2023
Haka, River Avon, Bristol, March 2023

I recently took a Japanese friend of mine for a second guided tour of some of Bristol’s spots, and we brought the dog with us this time. The tour started at Sparke Evans Park, then along the river to Temple Meads Station before returning on the south side of the river via the Paintworks. A decent walk, taking in some great street and graffiti art.

Haka, River Avon, Bristol, March 2023
Haka, River Avon, Bristol, March 2023

Although I have known about this Haka piece for a while, I simply haven’t walked past it since it was painted, probably because it is just a little bit far for my normal lunchtime rambles. It is a stunning Gruffalo piece, continuing his theme of children’s picture book characters, in particular those authored by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. This one is a real beauty. Haka really is on the crest of an inspiration wave at the moment, and long may it last.

5064. M32 Spot (156)

Haka, M32 Spot, Bristol, February 2023
Haka, M32 Spot, Bristol, February 2023

How absolutely brilliant is this? I used to read the Snail and Whale to my kids when they were little, along with several other Julia Donaldson classics. Having a close association with the sea for much of my childhood and my working life, I particularly enjoyed reading this picture book to them.

Haka, M32 Spot, Bristol, February 2023
Haka, M32 Spot, Bristol, February 2023

Haka has absolutely nailed the style of the illustrator, Axel Scheffler, in several pieces around the city, but this somehow feels even more authentic than some of the others. I am absolutely loving this ‘period’ in Haka’s street art journey, and expect it to continue for a few years yet. Bravo!

4985. M32 roundabout J3 (447)

Haka, M32 roundabout, Bristol, January 2023
Haka, M32 roundabout, Bristol, January 2023

I think that Haka might have been let off childcare duties recently, because he has been prolific with his stunning recreations of children’s picture book characters, and this magnificent piece on the M32 roundabout is a perfect example. I genuinely don’t know where he gets the energy from to paint so much, but am glad that he does.

Haka, M32 roundabout, Bristol, January 2023
Haka, M32 roundabout, Bristol, January 2023

This piece features a worm, Superworm, from the book by Julia Donaldson and illustrated by Axel Scheffler. Superworm, faithfully recreated, is wriggling his way through some beautiful chrome letters spelling out HAKA. A great way to start the year.