Unilever's Superlambanana Sculpture Gets a Vibrant Makeover in Celebration of Pride

I am thrilled to announce that I have had the honour of giving Unilever’s iconic Superlambanana sculpture, affectionately known as "Billy," a much-needed makeover. This project was a wonderful opportunity to bring new life to a beloved piece of art while celebrating diversity and inclusion.

Katie from Unilever approached me with the exciting commission to revitalise Billy, which had been left outside and sustained some damage to its ears, resulting in a weathered and neglected appearance. Inspired by my allyship and Pride designs, Katie requested a new look for the sculpture that would create a bright, inclusive, and welcoming sight for both staff and visitors at the Port Sunlight site.

The design we agreed upon masterfully combines elements of Unilever’s current logo with the colours and rainbow of the Pride Progress Flag, symbolising the company’s commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Kate and I donned our coveralls, looking like we’d stepped out of a scene from Breaking Bad, and got to work. We made swift progress sanding, filling, and priming Billy before taking on the intricate task of sketching, masking, and painting the new design.

The transformation process took a few days on-site, and the team ensured we were well-looked after, providing plentiful cups of tea and a supportive environment. The finished design looked fantastic, and after a couple of coats of varnish, the vibrant colours truly began to pop.

Billy’s new look now proudly resides in the social/cafe space at Unilever’s Port Sunlight site, serving as a big, rainbow-coloured welcome to everyone who visits. The sculpture not only stands as a testament to Unilever’s dedication to supporting the LGBTQI+ community but also as a beautiful piece of art that brightens up the workplace.