Bowker BMW has unveiled The Preston Eras, a richly detailed illustrated artwork created in collaboration with a local artist Kathryn Alice, celebrating the city’s extraordinary history, culture and creative spirit.
The piece, which spans centuries of Preston life, brings together prehistoric discoveries, industrial innovation, sporting legends, civic milestones, architecture, music, food and modern culture into a single illustration. Every section of the artwork has been meticulously researched and hand-drawn, resulting in a visual narrative that rewards close inspection and repeated viewing.
An Artist-Led Process Rooted in Research
The project was shaped by months of research, site visits and archival exploration. Drawing on sources including Lancashire Archives, the Harris Museum, and insights from local historians, businesses and cultural organisations, Kathryn Alice immersed herself in Preston’s story to ensure the artwork felt authentic and representative.
The Preston Eras is designed as a flowing visual “stretch” of the city, where prehistoric river life, Victorian innovation and modern culture exist side by side – encouraging viewers to uncover new details with every look.
Celebrating Local Enterprise and Innovation
Central to the artwork is Preston’s long-standing relationship with enterprise, transport and innovation – including the story of Bowker BMW itself. From W. H. Bowker Transport’s beginnings in 1919 to the modern, sustainability-led Bowker BMW Centre on Channel Way, the illustration reflects how local businesses have helped shape the city’s identity.
Many Preston businesses are woven naturally into the piece, sitting alongside historic landmarks such as, Winckley Square, Preston Bus Station and the Flag Market.
People, Sport and Cultural Icons
The Preston Eras also pays tribute to the people who have carried the city onto national and international stages.
Sporting legends such as Sir Tom Finney and the pioneering Dick, Kerr Ladies FC appear alongside figures from cricket, music, education and civic life.
The artwork acknowledges Preston’s influence on literature, comedy and pop culture too, with subtle references to Charles Dickens, Nick Park, Kathleen Ferrier and many others.
