The finished painting in Buck Street [Street Art Atlas]

THE artist behind a new mural in Camden Town says it is meant as a message of peace, unity and hope amidst the conflict in Israel and Palestine.

The futuristic painting, which was finished in Buck Street on Thursday, depicts a child with their hands clasped in prayer next to a peace sign.

Street artist Julian Phethean, who goes by the name Mr Cenz, told the New Journal: “It’s my reaction to seeing so many children being killed in war, without taking any political sides. So there’s no flags in it; it’s not a political piece in that sense.

“I’m a father myself, and I found it very upsetting on all sides with children getting caught up in conflicts. It’s dedicated to those lost dreams and aspirations.”

Mr Cenz at work [Street Art Atlas]

Mr Cenz, who hails from south London, has painted around eight murals in Camden.

He always uses bright colours “to bring light and inspiration and posi­tiveness to the world”.

“A lot of the time I don’t use realistic skin tones because I’m trying to create futuristic creatures where there’s no racism,” he said.

The artist said he loved the area for its vibrant culture.

But he added: “I don’t think there’s much good street art in Camden. It’s a shame; there should be more, particularly on streets where there’s a lot of buildings which haven’t got anything on. It could be an amazing open air gallery there. But there’s a lot of tagging and rubbish.

“I think the problem in London is that a lot of councils don’t really get behind street art. They’re very happy when tourists come down. The tourists love to see it, especially if it’s really high quality work. So I think it should be embraced more.

[Street Art Atlas]

“The problem with all of London, especially east London, is all of the big companies have come in and building owners have been offered big money to have their walls painted [with adverts].

“That’s taken over so there aren’t any spaces for artists that come and express themselves like I have and do something completely original.

“I understand that there has to be a bit of that because we as artists earn some money from doing that. But I sit on the fence and don’t do much commercial stuff myself. I like to paint for the people.

“For me, street art is about expressing something positive and inspiring for free.”