ArtHouse Jersey is proud to announce the completion of its large-scale public artwork, measuring 600 sq/m, as one of the largest murals in Europe. Titled ‘Home’ the work has now completely transformed the facade of the iconic Normans builders merchants. The mural, produced in partnership between ArtHouse Jersey and UK-based street art organisation Wood Street Walls.
ARTHOUSE JERSEY'S HOME MURAL COMPLETELY TRANSFORMS NORMANS FACADE IN ST HELIER PUBLIC ARTWORK CONTEMPLATING LIFE IN MODERN MULTICULTURAL JERSEY NOW COMPLETE
Official mural ‘unveiling’ to take place on Tuesday 14 June 2022 at 3pm in front of Normans in the presence of HE Sir Dalton & Lady Dalton
ArtHouse Jersey is proud to announce the completion of its large-scale public artwork, measuring 600 sq/m, as one of the largest murals in Europe. Titled ‘Home’ the work has now completely transformed the facade of the iconic Normans builders merchants. The mural, produced in partnership between ArtHouse Jersey and UK-based street art organisation Wood Street Walls, will be officially recognised and welcomed to the Island by the Lieutenant Governor of Jersey Sir Stephen Dalton & Lady Dalton at an ‘unveiling’ ceremony in front of Normans on Tuesday 14 June at 3pm. Media are welcome to attend.
Covering the frontage of the Normans building (owned by Columbia Estates), the mural has been created by celebrated artist Gabriel Pitcher, who ArtHouse Jersey selected following a callout to international street artists. The arts charity was seeking an artist who was familiar with socially engaged themes who could create something that spoke to the experience of modern multicultural Jersey. Pitcher and Wood Street Walls were offered the support of local artists Ben Robertson, James Carter, Kirsty Garcia and Olivia Garcia, all of whom contributed their talents to its production.
Using the space as a giant canvas, the work is inspired by ArtHouse Jersey's ‘Home’ residency which explored our Polish, Portuguese and Romanian communities' experience of moving to and living here in Jersey. The ‘Home’ mural is a contemplation of a selection of Jersey’s immigrant communities' contribution to Island life, and the modern, multicultural place that we all call home.
WHAT DOES THE ARTWORK DEPICT?The artwork depicts an image of a celebration. A celebration of the attitude of a resilient demographic who are hard-working and investing in a brighter future whilst remaining optimistic. The joyful celebration of composition of seven people of Madeiran, Polish and Romanian around a table, depicts a less than ideal and slightly claustrophobic atmosphere and surroundings. The image aims to give insight into the sacrifices so many people choose to make in order to make Jersey their home. With objects on the table such as sweets, and regional delicacies, including a birthday cake with seven candles, representing the seven figures in the picture, it can be interpreted as either a celebration of a year closer to being ‘fully qualified’ (meaning the housing market is one year closer), or a reflection of the experience of the many people who left their children in their home countries to be raised by relatives, leaving the audience to decide.
“One of the core learnings which remained with me was the idea that some accommodation tied to jobs in the unqualified years had stipulations like no children or no pets. It really stuck because it meant for many people a consideration of accepting a job, was whether or not to start a family, or even live a separated life from their children for up to a decade. The image of a kids birthday party but having no children present really stuck with me as a powerful image many have to face. Although the wall is large, I have tried to make the space they are in feel claustrophobic, a reflection of the serviced rooms and bedsits people live in, but also a comment on the fact that Jersey is a small island. Space is limited and the freedom to live in a comfortable space is quickly vanishing for all, as the housing market becomes out of reach for many. I have enjoyed visiting Jersey over the last six months, meeting both some amazing people on the Island, collaborating and listening to the stories of the output of Cliff, Dana and Natalia (Home residency artists), as well as visiting the home where my father spent his early years with my grandparents after the war.”
Gabriel Pitcher, Artist WOOD STREET WALLSThis large-scale mural is produced in partnership with Wood Street Walls CIC, who have created murals across the world with renowned artists in support of not for profits and local community. Wood Street Walls aim to make art accessible through the creation and installation of outdoor public art, and as such were natural partners for this project.
Since this project was first discussed with ArtHouse Jersey nearly three years ago, our organisation has started to understand the different communities and dynamics that exist on the Island, as well as the significant creative talent within Jersey. We would like to publicly thank Olivia Garcia, Kirsty Garcia, James Carter and Ben Robertson who have all positively contributed to bringing this mural to life - we look forward to this being the start of an ongoing relationship for projects in the future. We have been made to feel welcome in Jersey and Gabriel's concept would not be possible to without the figures in the image, (names TBC), and the people who let their home to be used for the reference image the mural has been composed (TBC name)”
Tom Jackson, co-founder, Wood Street Walls CICPieces of art in the public realm, like this mural, play an important role in strengthening a sense of place and belonging. ‘Home’ reaches under the surface of the assumptions that might be made about people's experiences who have moved to Jersey from abroad and does so with transparency and honesty. Although immediately pleasing to the eye, it isn’t afraid to highlight what might be lacking in what the Island has to offer immigrants, and the sacrifices people are willing to make to call Jersey ‘Home’. We’re delighted that this work now resides in one of the most prominent thoroughfares in the Island - at Normans - and that it will be in place to spark discussion for 18 months. Our sincere thanks go to Garbiel Pitcher for so elegantly and skilfully telling this story and creating this incredible piece of work.”
Tom Dingle, Director, ArtHouse JerseyFor interviews, images or more details please contact Carrie at carrie@arts.je or 0033 676 077 327
ENDS
Notes to Editor Gabriel PitcherGabriel Pitcher is an artist exploring the relationship between art and social narratives. Through expressive figurative portraits, Pitcher adapts concepts as original works, murals, short films and interventions to create multi-layered commentaries on social constructs and human sensibilities.
https://www.instagram.com/gabrielpitcher/
Wood Street WallsWood Street Walls are a London based organisation working to empower local communities and artists in public space. Together with their in-house team of artists and creative professionals they curate walls and coordinate events and run two artist workspaces in Walthamstow, London. Since their formation over seven years ago, they have helped facilitate and curate over 160 murals in the East London area and use the power of art and creativity and highlight key social issues and causes that affect London, the UK and all over the globe.
Wood Street Wallshttps://www.instagram.com/woodstreetwalls/ About ArtHouse JerseyArtHouse Jersey is a charity that serves our Island community and international audiences by investing in artists from Jersey and across the world to create ambitious work. The art we support has been shown in galleries, cinemas, online and performance venues all over the world as well as in schools, care-homes and Parish Halls across the Island.
ArtHouse JerseyFacebook: www.facebook.com/arthousejersey
Twitter: @ArtHouseJersey
Instagram: @arthousejersey
]]>Wood Street Walls collaborates again with Maser to repaint iconic East London Music venue to support Ukraine www.paintforukraine.co.uk Maser’s “Together for Ukraine” artwork the first in UK that allows public to donate by scanning art with smartphone Appeal to paint every city and town blue and yellow in the UK to show support for Ukraine via www.paintforukraine.co.uk First piece appeared in East London in 2017 as part of the Paint Your London street art festival.
Shoppable Street Art Raises Funds for Ukraine Wood Street Walls collaborates again with Maser to repaint iconic East London Music venue to support Ukraine paintforukraine.co.uk
A new piece of street art that measure over 80 metres in length and designed by renowned street artist Maser allows the public to donate to Ukraine by simply pointing their smartphone at the piece.
“Together for Ukraine” appeared in Walthamstow, East London today (1 April)..
The piece is the first of many set to appear in the UK with organisers urging those up and down the country to paint “every city and town blue and yellow” to show unity with Ukraine and drive the humanitarian appeal.
Wood Street Walls has made an initial £4,000 available to any organisations and school groups looking to join the campaign through www.paintforukraine.co.uk.
The piece – created using recycled paint delivered from landfill – can be scanned using the ‘Smartify’ app. Those who scan the piece are taken to a page where they can purchase a limited edition print from Maser or make a donation directly to Play Your Part for Ukraine.
“Together with Ukraine” appears on a former Walthamstow music venue, The Standard, now owned by Scape who will be redeveloping the site later this year to deliver a new venue and shared living accommodation, supporters of this project. The venue is steeped in history having played host to an eclectic host of artists from Suzi Quatro to Kula Shaker, Harry Enfield and Jack Dee.
Play Your Part for UkrainemaserWood Street Wallspaintforukraine.co.ukScape QuotesThe situation in Ukraine has given everyone pause for thought - "Together for Ukraine" is an artwork which I hope will contribute to the relief effort to helping the country of Ukraine in their ongoing fight for freedom." I am delighted to collaborate with Wood Street Walls by painting The Standard in Walthamstow again, but most importantly producing a charity artwork to raise funds as part of Andriy Shevchenko's "Play Your Part for Ukraine" campaign. The five charities are delivering critical work in a time where Ukrainians need it most.
Maser, ArtistWe are committed to doing everything we can to help the people of Ukraine during this terrible conflict. As a business Scape are working with a number of charities including exploring opportunities to provide accommodation for refugees coming to the UK. The artwork at The Standard site is a symbol of our solidarity with the people of the Ukraine and we hope will help to deliver much needed funds in this time of need.
Nigel Taee, Founder and Chairman of ScapeWood Street Walls are thankful to collaborate with Maser with the support of Scape and have the building play a key part in its final act before coming down. We hope that the sales from will go to much needed support to Ukranians suffering at the hands of this unjust and senseless war.
Mark Clack, Co-Founder of Wood Street Walls Further Info Lead ArtistMaser
Maser truly embodies the centric spirit of contemporary visual art in Ireland today. Having created artwork since 1995, over the last 25 years, Maser has earned much respect professionally and has generated a large and dedicated following both in Ireland and Internationally - through his seamlessly imaginative and unique graphic style.
Maser’s unique, artistic style draws upon numerous influences including optical and mid-century art, and his paintings are regularly complemented with bold colours, pattern and text. He is ambitious and is unafraid to experiment with any artistic format. Through his use of contrasting colours and flowing patterns, Maser’s work offers the viewer an opportunity to become fully immersed in an almost hypnotic state.
In addition to his artistic practice, in 2018, Maser established Atelier Maser a creative studio and gallery space located in the heart of Dublin city, in Ireland. The space is dedicated to emerging visual artists and boasts an exciting programme of exhibitions. Alongside its unique exhibition programme, Atelier Maser also hosts regular wellness events, such as meditation and yoga - to promote wellbeing and learning within the Irish urban landscape.
Lead PartnersWood Street Walls
Wood Street Walls are a London based organisation working to empower local communities and artists in public space. Together with their in-house team of artists and creative professionals they curate walls and coordinate events and run two artist workspaces in Walthamstow, London. Since their formation over 5 years ago, they have helped facilitate and curate over 100 murals in the East London area and use the power of art and creativity and highlight key social issues and causes that affect London and the UK.
https://www.woodstreetwalls.co.uk
https://www.instagram.com/woodstreetwalls/
Play Your Part for Ukraine
Support the millions of innocent people caught up in the unfolding crisis in Ukraine. Join the movement started by footballer Andriy Shevchenko and help end the humanitarian crisis unfolding across Europe. #PlayYourPart
For maximum impact, the donation you give will be distributed equally between five leading nonprofit organisations working right now in Ukraine and the surrounding areas:
UK for UNHCR, UNICEF, UN WORLD FOOD PROGRAMME, LAUREUS SPORT FOR GOOD, THE ORDER OF MALTA
Charity Registration No. 1183415, 1072612, 1099682, 1148427, 1111364
https://www.justgiving.com/campaign/play-your-part
Scape
Scape are city living specialists with properties around the world. Located in some of the world’s leading cities, Scape has properties in London, Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Dublin, with Boston and San Jose opening soon. With over 30,000 rooms in operation or development across 64 properties and partner properties, Scape has a global footprint which is seeing rapid expansion.
Founded in 2008 by three entrepreneurs, Nigel Taee, Tom Ward and Adam Brockley, Scape was born from the belief that you shouldn’t have to compromise on quality city living. The company started within its Student by Scape proposition to solve the problem of sub-standard student accommodation. For years students have been living in badly designed spaces. Now, with there being more pressure on young people than ever, the role of where they live has never been more important.
It’s this same relentless drive for improvement that inspired the Living by Scape proposition which takes the DNA of the original Student by Scape offering and reimagines it for a much wider audience of city dwellers, professionals, key workers and digital nomads.
Scape is transforming the way in which people live through its smart approach to design and service. Built from the inside out, Scape incorporates elements such as workspaces, fitness studios, cinemas and shared kitchens, and by clearly maximising space Scape can help residents build warm communities without compromising on personal space. Each Scape property has been expertly shaped around the people who’ll call it home, giving everything they need in the smartest way possible.
Smartify
Smartify is a global platform to discover art and culture. Working in museums, galleries, historic houses, sculpture parks, street art, and even hotels, Smartify is the free mobile guide that allows places to share their collections with the world.
William Morris Big Local
The Big Local partnership is a group of residents from the William Morris Ward, who together are responsible for guiding the overall direction of the Big Local in their area. The Big Local plan describes the priorities for the area and how we will work towards achieving them and making the ward an even better place to live. The residents on the partnership meet every month to steer the project. The Big Local partnership and plans are endorsed by Local Trust, the charity that supports and oversees all 150 Big Locals nationally.
A creative programme from lead partners William Morris Big Local and Wood Street Walls, supported by Creative Civic Change which uses the arts and creativity to create meaningful civic change. The team of residents behind it are aiming to spotlight on organisations doing exciting work in the fields of design and social change – making the case for creativity as the essential ingredient in the process of creating a more equitable, caring society.
]]>Wood Street Walls are teaming up with artist Carl Cashman for this year's instalment of Pick Your Pattern 2019. Vote to take part in shaping the next mural in Leyton.
Pick Your Pattern 2019: Carl Cashman in Leyton
Wood Street Walls is delighted to announce its annual Pick Your Pattern which puts the design in the hands of the public. Previous murals have been painted on Walthamstow High Street with Zarah Hussain and next to the William Morris Gallery by ATMA (both Waltham Forest residents). This year's mural will take place in Leyton, across the road from Leyton Midland Road station.
We will be working with a previous collaborator of Wood Street Walls, Carl Cashman. Carl is an artist and curator of Semi Skimmed Gallery – a platform for new and established urban and contemporary artists. He has exhibited work across Europe and America for galleries such as Thinkspace Projects in LA.
For this particular site and project, Carl has taken inspiration from his visits to the Middle East to present 3 different colourways for a large wall on the side of Mobeen, a restaurant on Leyton High Road.
In 2018 I visited Palestine 3 times to learn about the culture, history and architecture. I visited many places such as Jericho, Hishrams Palace, Manger square, Dome of the rock and The Milk Grotto (highlighted in the images below). The design I propose to paint is a culmination of the geometric tiles and patterns I saw in the places that I visited.
Carl Cashman, Artist, Curator and Owner of Semi Skimmed Gallery Voting open until 21st SeptemberYou can help decide the next artwork by visiting www.pickyourpattern.co.uk
About The ProjectCarl Cashman is a contemporary artist based in Devon, who creates stunning, vibrant geometric-based optical art. His work takes inspiration from some of our favourite artists including Victor Vasarely and Bridget Riley. Carl produced a huge version of his “Love Hurts” piece on a 100ft wall at the 2016 Glastonbury music festival and now curates his own exhibitions through his Semi Skimmed Gallery Project, promoting established and rising stars in urban and contemporary art.
Forest Recycling Project (FRP) is a social enterprise and charity with environmental and social aims. ... of practical initiatives to reduce, re-use and recycle waste, and help people live a sustainable lifestyle, promoting a greener, more inclusive Waltham Forest. Our main operational area is reclaiming, repurposing and affordably reselling waste material that would otherwise fill and pollute local landfill sites. The three products we recycle are paint, scaffolding wood and fabrics. We believe that social and environmental challenges go hand in hand and volunteering is at the heart of all our activities
Wood Street Wallshttps://frpuk.orgCarl CashmanCo-Op Community Fund]]>Walthamstow, East London - Two Walthamstow based arts and community organisations have been awarded over £200k in funding from the Local Trust to help deliver creative and cultural activities in the areas where they based. The project, “Urban by Nature”, named to reflect the communities they work in which border Epping Forest and the Lee Valley, will work with local people to commission new activities for the benefit of residents and businesses.
PRESS RELEASE: Local Art Collective and Community Group awarded £203k for 3 year creative programme
Walthamstow based Wood Street Walls CIC and William Morris Big Local have been awarded funding for a three year programme that will use arts and creativity to support community-led change in the Wood Street and William Morris neighbourhoods.
Walthamstow, East London - Two Walthamstow based arts and community organisations have been awarded over £200k in funding from the Local Trust to help deliver creative and cultural activities in the areas where they based. The project, “Urban by Nature”, named to reflect the communities they work in which border Epping Forest and the Lee Valley, will work with local people to commission new activities for the benefit of residents and businesses.
Urban by NatureThe Urban by Nature collaboration is one of two locations in London - part of a group of 14 nationally, selected from over 800 applications - to receive funding from the Local Trust’s “Creative Civic Change” programme. Funded by The National Lottery Community Fund, the Calouste Gulbenkian Foundation, Esmée Fairbairn Foundation and Local Trust, the initiative is a shared desire to create a deeper knowledge and understanding of what community-led cultural activity looks like in action.
Consultation and feedback sessions were hosted in the area, resulting in over 900 pieces of feedback to help shape the programme which targets activities with, by and for young people. The programme will cover the locations of Wood Street and William Morris and draw on the wider Walthamstow community for support and partnerships. Residents, local businesses and creatives are encouraged to continue to provide their suggestions for the long term program via the "What Do You Want?" website as continued consultation.
The ProgrammeThe initial programme contains the following highlights:
An ambitious part of the project is forming business partnerships to help give people new pathways into the creative industries. Working with local businesses, Urban by Nature plans to develop new products in collaboration with these businesses to generate new revenue for the project, long after the three year programme completes, with a view to creating a sustainable model for creative programming locally.
QuotesUrban by Nature is an invitation to everyone – it responds to the most human of needs – to be connected to others, to learn and to express ideas. We have developed an exciting programme that will evolve as we go based on what we are picking up from the ground – this is the great thing about the Creative Civic Change fund – our partners deeply understand that communities change and need time to build relationships and understanding in order to create relevant offers. Our partnership is led by amazing volunteers who live and work locally – can’t wait to see what happens
Lawrence Walker, William Morris Big Local and Urban by Nature Co-LeadPeople are at the heart of what we do and we believe it is important for them to get involved, have their say and make the changes they want to see. It’s thanks to National Lottery players and this partnership, the Creative Civic Change programme is building stronger networks within communities, whilst bringing them together to tackle issues that are not only affecting them individually, but collectively as a whole
Sarah Benioff, Director of England at The National Lottery Community Fund Launch Event - Walthamstow Cricket Club - June 9thTo celebrate the funding, Urban by Nature partners will be hosting an event in partnership with the Walthamstow Village Pre-school to help raise funds for the pre-school’s annual trip. There will be fairground games, live performers, mini golf and creative activities, as well as a stall to find out how members of the community can continue to shape the programme.
Local Trust - Creative Civic ChangeWhat Do You Want - Consultation SurveyWood Street WallsWilliam Morris Big Local]]>Competition for public to paint giant works of art painted on basketball courts
Creative Courts: Uniting Basketball, The Community & Street Art London based urban arts group aims to turn basketball courts into giant works of art to promote grass roots basketball.
Last weekend visitors to the Walthamstow Garden party were asked to participate in creating the design for two basketball courts in Lloyd Park, Walthamstow, East London with the launch of a new arts project, Creative Courts.
Over 350 submissions on postcards were submitted over the weekend, with designs drawn on postcards and on a giant blackboard basketball court, inspired by Candy Chang's "Before I Die" project, where the community will be encourage to draw their designs in chalk, which were wiped down and started again every hour.
For young people between the ages of 11 and 15, basketball is the second largest team sport in the country after football however it receives nowhere near the same funding. Creative Courts project aims to help promote grass roots basketball as culture and creativity in public spaces, driven by the local community.
The Creative Courts toolkit, designed by London based design agency Bold & Bold is aimed to be used to help the community design and share their designs to be painted across multiple basketball courts in London and beyond, which also included creating basketball nets to be hung all across London. After Lloyd Park's makeover is complete, a second court in Thamesmead planned to be painted in 2019.
Take part with a chance to see your design painted onto a basketball courtPeople can take part by downloading our Creative Courts postcard.
Draw your designs and then:
- Share on social media with the hashtag #creativecourts OR
- Upload your design to our website www.creativecourts.co.uk
Shortlisted Designs to be chosen by the local communityAll designs will be reviewed with a shortlist to be decided by funder William Morris Big Local, Waltham Forest Flames, ward councillors from London Borough of Waltham Forest, Bold and Bold, Friends of Lloyd Park & Wood Street Walls.
Additional Facts on the reach of basketballSince London 2012, the proportion of adults who did no fitness sessions of at least 30 minutes in the previous month has increased to 57 per cent, according to Sport England. The decrease in physical activity has been greatest among the most disadvantaged socioeconomic groups. To inspire grassroots participation, shiny medals count for much less than maintaining local community sports facilities.
Every week, 175,000 people between 14 and 25 play, as many as play cricket and golf combined; 336,000 people aged 14 and above play in England at least once a month.
Lisa Wainwright, CEO British Basketball
People are invited to participate by downloading the workbook at download.creativecourts.co.uk
Creative Courts WebsiteDownload the Creative Courts WorksheetWilliam Morris Big LocalBold & Bold - Behind Creative Courts IdentityWaltham Forest Flames BasketballWaltham Forest - London Borough of Culture 2019Research: Basketball is popular and inclusive. So why is Britain giving up on it?Candy Chang - Before I Die]]>Pick Your Pattern 2018 returns to Walthamstow, with Works by Madge Gill & Wood Street Walls asking public to help with new art to be erected at Walthamstow High Street
Vote For Madge: Public asked to choose the design of new mural of celebrated visionary artist Madge Gill Pick Your Pattern 2018 returns to Walthamstow, with Works by Madge Gill & Wood Street Walls asking public to help with new art to be erected at Walthamstow High Street
Walthamstow based organisation Works by Madge Gill is working in partnership with Wood Street Walls to create a commemorative mural on Walthamstow High Street, the street she was born in and spent her formative years.
The mural designs will be inspired by her artwork, and will be unveiled at this years Walthamstow Garden Party. It will be a fantastic moment for the community to vote on their favourite design of a local female hero to be featured on the High Street, on the wall of BAD Warehouse, 121 High Street, opposite her place of birth and recently unveiled blue plaque.
Raised at 71 High Street in Walthamstow, Madge Gill was a self-taught, visionary artist who created meticulous artworks during her lifetime, many of which reflected her obsession with spiritualism. Her inspired works were often monumental, either in sheer scale or in number. For an untutored artist she skillfully explored different techniques and formats: paints, inks, textiles. Although relatively unknown at the time she is now considered a prolific and powerful artist.
Walthamstow based organisation ‘Works by Madge Gill’ is working in partnership with ‘Wood Street Walls’ & owner of the wall, Lazer Group, to create a commemorative mural on Walthamstow High Street, the street she was born in and spent her formative years. The mural designs, created by Paddy Molly and brought to life by female contemporary urban artist Pang, will be inspired by her artwork and will be unveiled at this years Walthamstow Garden Party. It will be a fantastic moment for the community to vote on their favourite design of a local female hero to be featured on the High Street.
You can cast your vote by visiting www.voteformadge.co.uk up until 31st August 2018.
The mural is part of a year long project organised by Works by Madge Gill celebrating the artists life and work. The project officially began earlier this year with a Blue Plaque being installed on the flat she was born in at 71 High St, Walthamstow. Over the next year a series of events and workshops will culminate in a retrospective exhibition of her rarely seen artworks.
After researching and developing this project for several years, my key aim is to bring Madge's fascinating story and visionary artworks back to the areas she originated from. This is a special occasion where the community itself will be able to vote on their favourite design to celebrate her life and art. It has been exciting developing this project with artist and illustrator Paddy Molloy, who's work explores historical narratives in urban environments, and to continue this collaboration with Wood Street Walls and Pang. She will be to developing the winning design to create a lasting tribute to Madge Gill on the street where she was born.
Sophie Dutton, Works by Madge GillArt is a comfort and a reason for being, and as an artist the main thing. Certainly with Madge it could have been the one thing she had to focus on... Madge Gill invented ways of drawing, using very few traditional techniques, there’s a wonderful spontaneity about them. I taught in Walthamstow in the early 60’s and it had an amazing creative atmosphere, it will be fantastic to have her to return to her home.
Peter Blake, ArtistI have followed Madge Gill's for a number of years since being captivated by her approach and output ever since seeing an exhibition of her work around 5 years ago. Being part of Pick Your Pattern 2018 and celebrating her life with this mural, especially in the centenary of suffrage is a amazing and I look forward to painting in September.
Pang, ArtistMadge Gill is one of Walthamstow's unsung creative geniuses. It's fitting that on the anniversary of 100 years of Suffrage that we celebrate her life and work, not just with a long overdue plaque at her residence on the High Street, but also with a mural on par with the William Morris mural, next to her place of birth. I hope this project serves as one way for people to find our more about her and her creative output. Vote for Madge!
Stella Creasy, MP for Walthamstow Vote for Madge - Pick Your Pattern 2018#BehindEveryGreatCity - Mayor of London CultreWorks by Madge GillWood Street WallsPANG - Urban and Contemporary ArtistPaddy Molloy - Artwork DesignWaltham Forest Borough of Culture 2019#voteformadge - Twitter#voteformadge - Instagram]]>Paint Leyton aims to raise money to help deliver more murals in London (Leyton?) via the Co-Op Local Community Fund, asking members to donate their 1% through their Co-Op memberships.
Public asked for their suggestions to bring murals to Leyton made with recycled paint Paint Leyton aims to raise funds for Forest Recycling Project through the Co-Op Communities Fund
Paint Leyton aims to raise money to help deliver more murals across Waltham Forest via the Co-Op Local Community Fund, asking members to donate their 1% through their Co-Op memberships
Residents and visitors to the area can give feedback in a number of ways on the next three screens - through text, uploading images or sketches through your computer or mobile phone or providing links to reference images or mood boards via Pinterest for example.
We need your support and input to add as much colour to Leyton as we possibly can.
Follow the link at www.paintleyton.co.uk to tell us what you would like to see on our launch wall at Leyton Midland Overground Station bridge. The form will also show you how to pledge your support via the Co-Op community fund.
You can even share stories of events, notable people, community champions who you believe should be remembered.
Shortlisted public suggestions will be shared online for the public to review, with feedback to close by July 31 2018.
Visit www.paintleyton.co.uk to participate.
FRP processes over 50,000 l of reclaimed paint in Leyton each year. 'Paint Leyton' is a chance for us to give back; to brighten up the walls of our own community" "We really hope the people of Leyton will tell us what they want to see and support our colourful mission by going to the local coop and vote for 'Paint Leyton'.
Pernille Moller, Chief Exec, Forest Recycling ProjectI fully support this project – Leyton has a very rich history in the arts, as it does in sports and film making. Harry Beck’s design for the Tube map was a stroke of genius; there are very few things that have endured so successfully for so long.Public spaces must be used to display our varied and fascinating history and this is such an opportunity.
John Cryer, MP for Leyton and Wanstead Select Forest Recycling Project via your Co‑op member accountRegister for a Co‑op membershipPaint LeytonForest Recycling ProjectWood Street WallsWaltham Forest, Borough of Culture 2019]]>Watch a 160 meter long mural in Walthamstow come to life by artist Saskia Pomeroy in collaboration with Wood Street Walls.
Wood Street Walls and Saskia Pomeroy Mural at Kitchener Road Park, Walthamstow, London Artist Saskia Pomeroy collaborates with Wood Street Walls to create a 160 meter long mural outside Kitchener Road Park
Grand Matter artist Saksia Pomeroy in partnership with Wood Street Walls completed a community lead 160 meter mural to help promote community cohesion in preperation for Waltham Forest's Borough of Culture program of events in 2019.
The mural, part of a number of improvements as part of Waltham Forest's £500,000 Parks Improvement scheme, investing £25,000 for parks in 20 wards was selected by the local public who got to choose both colours and text from designs created by the artist via an online vote for local residents to participate.
The phrases "Work Together, Accomplish More" and a pupular William Morris quote "Fellowship is Life" were chosen, in addition to the dark purple background that has made the artwork bold and vibrant.
The artwork was painted over the space of 2 weeks, with materials provided by Leyland Paint and the Forest Recycling Project.
I wanted to include a message about community within the mural. Community is important for people's wellbeing, happiness, even safety. The motto for Waltham Forest is "Fellowship is Life" so I thought it apt to refer to William Morris given his influence on the borough and the Arts & Crafts Movement in general. Given the borough winning the first ever London Borough of Culture Award and the bid being a joint effort between many community groups and the Local Authority, I thought the motto "Work Together, Accomplish More", was an relevant positive phrase the community can relate to.
Saskia PomeroyWorking with Saskia to complete this over a 2 week period, covering over 160 meters was no mean feat, but the finished artwork speaks for itself. It's bold, vibrant and really brightens up the perimeter of the park and draws people to the on either side of the wall. This mural is a great way to kick start our London Borough of Culture Celebrations for 2019 and show how local creatives can benefit the area when they live and work in the borough. The paint used from Forest Recycling Project is reclaimed and would otherwise have gone to landfill, which in itself increases the positive impact of the overall project too.
Tom Jackson Co-Founder Wood Street WallsIt’s been a pleasure seeing residents’ suggestions for their parks and green spaces turned into reality by talented artists like Saskia Pomeroy and Wood Street Walls. This William Morris-influenced design at Kitchener Road Park is a real standout, which reflects both the borough’s rich cultural heritage as well as our aspirations for the future as we prepare to host a range of exciting events throughout 2019 as London’s first Borough of Culture. It will bring enjoyment to thousands of people, young and old, all across Waltham Forest and beyond. Many thanks to the artists for their excellent work!
Cllr Clyde Loakes, Deputy Leader and Cabinet Member for the Environment Wood Street Walls - Urban and Community Arts Organisation in East LondonSaskia PomeroyGrand MatterWaltham Forest, London Borough of Culture 2019Kitchener Park Mural - Saskia PomeroyResidents' designs for improving borough parks announced - and the work's already underwayLeyland PaintForest Recycling Project]]>Wood Street Walls have received grant funding from the Mayor of London for “Leytonstone Art Gardens” as part of the Mayor’s Community Green Space Grants 2018. The Mayor has awarded £1.1 million in grants to 55 local projects to help create and improve green spaces. The Community Green Space Grants include projects to improve parks, design new green spaces, green school playgrounds, plant trees, install sustainable drainage and restore waterways. The grants are one element of the Mayor’s £9 million Greener City Fund, which will create and improve green spaces and encourage tree planting and management in London. See www.london.gov.uk/greenercity
Mayor of London funding award to East London arts group for first new wave of legal art walls in London. Wood Street Walls secure funding to create Leytonstone Art Gardens - a new wave of legal street art spaces in Waltham Forest
East London Arts organisation Wood Street Walls have been awarded £5,000 from the Mayor of London's Greener City Fund to create the first of a new wave of free bookable legal street art walls in London.
The Leytonstone Art Gardens project is a collaboration between Wood Street Walls CIC & UAL Central Saint Martins Design Against Crime Unit, that aims to give artists safe places to paint in a new public community garden without fear of recrimination, whilst helping reduce the levels of CO2 within the area from the new planting.
Artists will be able to book via an online portal, where photos of all the artwork will be held for the public to see.
Permission for the space has been granted by both Waltham Forest Council and Network Rail who own the green space and arches respectively.
The initial layout of how the space will look (above) has been designed by architecture practice Urben, and will be shared with members of the local community who will be able to help co-create the space, with a drop in consultation located at The Heathcote & Star pub opposite. At least 5 new trees will be planted to help support Waltham Forest Council's commitment to plant at least 1,200 trees in the borough.
The new community garden space will have a dedicated website for people to upload, stories, songs, and feedback of the rotating artwork, with custom made benches with hand crank powered speakers designed by architecture practice BAT Studio.
We're delighted to secure The Mayor's Greener City funding for what we believe to be an important part of London's culture. Providing artists safe places to paint & express themselves in addition to affordable artist workspace is key to the captial's cultural infrastructure. We hope this will be one of many new legal walls popping up in Waltham Forest and all over London.
Mark Clack, co-founder, Wood Street Walls CICCommunities are crying out for high quality green space in their local areas, and I have listened to their great ideas. Whether it’s designing a new garden, planting trees or greening school playgrounds, these projects will transform local spaces, improve health and wellbeing and help clean up our toxic air – and young Londoners are getting involved too. I want London to become the UK’s first National Park City, with more than half the capital green by 2050 – and we’re already delivering. It’s vital that, as our capital continues to grow, all Londoners have access to open, green areas, and these projects will help make our city a greener, healthier place to live.
Sadiq Khan, Mayor of LondonWe are thrilled to be part of this project, which acts as a natural progression for us, both from our ongoing work on Social Safer places and our work exploring new ways for visual voices, including street art, to thrive and invite engagement among many voices in urban contexts. For so long, the only way to easily impact our local environments has been to complain. Now, with this project and others that Central Saint Martins and Wood Street Walls are involved in, we are opening up more ways for multiple publics to get involved in pro-active and hands-on ways. This initiative will enable visual works and people-led audio content become a dynamic part of everyday life in the area. If you have ideas or want to change the experience at this site, come, speak with words or pictures and make it happen.
Marcus Willcocks, UAL: Central Saint Martins Design Against Crime Research Unit. Wood Street Walls CIC - Arts OrganisationUAL Central Saint Martins Design Against Crime Research CentreUrben StudioMayor delivers £1.1m grants to help transform & create green spacesGreener City FundGive Artists' Space Campaign - Affordable Artist workspace and cultural infrastructure for the UKBetween Architecture and Technology Studio Notes for EditorsWood Street Walls have received grant funding from the Mayor of London for “Leytonstone Art Gardens” as part of the Mayor’s Community Green Space Grants 2018. The Mayor has awarded £1.1 million in grants to 55 local projects to help create and improve green spaces.
The Community Green Space Grants include projects to improve parks, design new green spaces, green school playgrounds, plant trees, install sustainable drainage and restore waterways. The grants are one element of the Mayor’s £9 million Greener City Fund, which will create and improve green spaces and encourage tree planting and management in London. See www.london.gov.uk/greenercity
]]>Wood Street Walls, supported by Amal – A Said Foundation Project - has has commissioned Zarah Hussain in collaboration with Wood Street Walls to paint her first outdoor mural of 2017, asking the public to choose between four different artworks inspired by Islamic geometry and patterns - the winning design will be painted on the wall on the corner of Walthamstow Market & Vernon Road in the month of June as part of Ramadan and Eid celebrations.
East London urban arts collective, Wood Street Walls have collaborated with Walthamstow based and internationally recognised artist Zarah Hussain to participate in this year's Pick Your Pattern project, in partnership with Amal, an initiative that supports Muslim cultures and arts in the UK, including storytelling, visual arts, theatre, poetry, music, dance and film.
Pick Your Pattern 2017 will be promoted throughout London and the public is encouraged to vote on one of the four designs created by Zarah Hussain.
Vote
Every individual that votes will be entered into a prize draw to win £100 shopping credit at The Mall. People will be able to vote online via the Pick Your Pattern website, or vote in person by downloading the form or completing a Pick Your Pattern Postcard which will be delivered to thousands of households in Walthamstow and the surrounding areas with the support of Local Estate Agent Stow Brothers. Completed forms can be delivered to a drop off point located in The Mall, Walthamstow.
About the Artist
The work of Zarah Hussain is at the intersection between science and spirituality, combining contemporary digital art with a rigorous training in traditional Islamic geometry drawn by hand. Her work encompasses a range of forms, from looping infinite animations made with code, to sculpture, painting and interactive apps. Her work uses mathematics that celebrate the order and structure found in the universe to create a range of work based on infinite repeating patterns.