Amanda Parker

Mosaics always make me think about time. Firstly, the amount of time historically that this particular art form has been with us, and secondly the amount of the time it must take to compose them! Amanda Parker's are no exception and the image sequence here gives a sense of the compositional process as well.


1. Please tell us about the work you will be showing in the 2009 E17 Art Trail?
I have an exhibition of decorative mosaic panels at Health Works Complimentary Health Clinic on Hoe Street (No 33 on the Art Trail Map). These are suitable for both interior or exterior environments and I will be at the venue during the Art Trail to advise on private commissions and educational projects.

I also have a large mosaic panel, on display at Stoneydown Park Primary School, Pretoria Avenue, E17, which was created by a group of 10 year old children. This has been installed on the exterior of the school and can only be seen from the park walkways. (No 5 on the Art Trail Map)

2. Could you have done this work anywhere, or is it specific to E17? Did you respond to this year’s Art Trail theme ‘At Home’?
I work all over London, so it is not specific to LBWF. I related to the theme of "At Home", in as much as the exhibition was actually created in my home environment, with some of the natural elements of my garden being reflected in the choice of subject matter.....plants, flowers, fish, butterflies, etc.

3. Have you participated in the E17 Art Trail before?
Yes, I participated in the 2008 Art Trail

4. How does your work this year relate to your previous artistic practice?
It represents a development of my creative skills, with an ongoing exploration of new styles and techniques.

5. What challenges (if any) do you face in realising this work?
Mosaics are very time consuming to create, due to the processes involved, and with a busy working life, "time management" is my greatest challenge.

6. Who is this work for?
Anyone interested in the creative arts

7. As well as being an artist what else do you do?
I am an Arts Manager for The Creative Arts Company, who create large scale arts projects, that build stronger communities and support the regeneration of urban environments. Further details via : http://www.thecreativeartscompany.com/

8. What is your favourite place in E17?
William Morris House, for the inspiring textiles and beautiful tiles........
The house is also very atmospheric and you get a real sense of its cultural importance.