Art Student's London Bus Portrait Steals the Spotlight at City Hall

Tia Mirza, a Fine Art student at Arts University Bournemouth, recently presented a large portrait she painted of London Mayor Sadiq Khan. The unveiling took place at City Hall in London, marking a special moment for both Tia and the mayor. Tia was joined by Jonathan Carr, the pro vice-chancellor of her university, as well as her family. The portrait was part of Tia's final degree project and had previously been displayed at her university's summer art show before being moved to its new home in London.

The painting is unique because Tia chose not to show Sadiq Khan in a typical political setting. Instead, she painted him on the side of a London bus. This was a thoughtful decision, as Sadiq Khan grew up in Tooting, and his father worked as a London bus driver. Tia wanted to highlight the mayor's personal connection to the city's transport system and his background. She explained to Sadiq Khan that she was inspired by his story and his work for London, especially in making the city’s transport better. Tia also mentioned that, as someone who shares a British Asian background with the mayor, she was moved by his views on identity and belonging.

Sadiq Khan expressed his gratitude, saying it was a 'huge honor' to be painted by Tia. He said the portrait marked an important milestone as he reflected on his ten years as Mayor of London. The unveiling was a joyful event, with Tia and Sadiq Khan sharing a laugh as they stood on either side of the painting. Jonathan Carr praised Tia’s achievement, saying it represented the highest level of creativity and determination that the university encourages in its students. He noted that it was rare for an undergraduate student to secure a sitting with such a prominent figure for a final year project. The portrait, he said, was a masterful example of traditional realism. The event was a proud moment for Tia, her family, and her university, and the painting will now be displayed at City Hall for many people to see.