As hundreds of Woolworths shops lie derelict and unloved in high streets across the country, one innovative group of artists and art lovers alike have pulled together to use the abondoned Leytonstone branch for the public good – by turning it into a makeshift gallery for this year’s Leytonstone Arts Trail.
Trail organiser Frances Bowman says: “We were only really sure it would go ahead when we got given the keys two weeks ago, but have been planning it since March. It was an open submission – everybody who submitted a work will be in the show.
“It’s called Pick ‘n’ Mix and it’s sort of a jumble, but it really suits the space. It hasn’t been redecorated, the work is installed on the shelving and old display units, some is even suspended from the ceiling.”
The trail were given permission to use the store from Waltham Forest council who were keen for the space to be shared equally with next month’s Leytonstone Festival. However, festival organisers generously gave up their claim so the trail could have sole use and have continued to be extremely supportive and helpful, says Frances.
Herself a local to the area, Frances, who exhibited in last year’s inaugural arts trail, explains she was keen to take up the role of organiser for personal reasons.
“I went to school in Bethnal Green, sixth form in Camden, then completed an art foundation in Wimbledon before going to the Glasgow School of Art and felt I didn’t know anything about the area I was living in,” the 25-year-old tells me.
Speaking about the need for the trail, she adds: “Artists living in the area are exhibiting in Hackney or Bethnal Green, but living round the corner from other artists doing exactly same thing who they haven’t meet.
“Our aim is to provide these local artists with an opportunity to show their work in their local area and network with other artists. The other is to provide the residents of Leytonstone with an annual arts festival without going to London.”
Growing from the relatively small event it was last year, Frances, 25, says the response has been “incredible” this year. With over 100 artists involved and 31 events planned across 21 venues, residents can expect to see art popping up everywhere, from a one-off film night at O’Neills to a gallery under the stairs of one artist’s home. So keep you eyes peeled!
The Leytonstone Arts Trail runs from Saturday, June 27, until Sunday, July 19. Details: 020 8558 3595 or www.leytonstoneartstrail.org
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