‘Illustrating Newham’ at Green Street Celebration, Newham

In February of 2022 I proposed, devised and led the creation of a large-scale community artwork over two days as part of ‘Green Street Celebration’ in Newham, East London. 

Held in the historic Queen’s Market on Green Street, this was an ongoing workshop, with the intention of encouraging  local families and children to engage with the festival and all they could see around them - using reportage illustration to document their experience. 

As the festival was being held within their local market, it also encouraged them to draw their personal experience and reflect on the market as a central part of the local community. Over the two days, we worked with a range of children of different ages - as well as a number of adults who enjoyed the chance to express themselves creatively whilst doing their shopping. 

Using a huge roll of paper, plenty of coloured pencils, pens and lots of imagination, we were thrilled to work with so many families and children - many of whom returned to add more to the artwork. The children were excited to draw the fruit, vegetables and market stalls around them - as well as the perfomers as part of the festival.

As part of this workshop, I worked with two other workshop leaders and coordinated with events staff to ensure the safe running of the workshop in a public space. 

‘Lost Words’ Project, Kirkleatham Museum Redcar

In July 2021, I was commissioned to work on the ‘Lost Words’ project for Kirkleatham Museum, Redcar -devising and delivering workshops for a primary Y6 class over two days. Working with a local storyteller, I provided opportunities for pupils to develop their creative writing into art forms, using water colour and printing techniques - contributing to a community response to the museum’s exhibition at that time.

To see the original illustrations I created as a resource for this project, click here.