This splash of colour against the grey neighbouring insurance building is a perfect example of Walthamstow’s artistic boom. Just two years ago the building was a bricked up storage room for the Tax Office, but with hard work, dedication and creative magic it was transformed in to the E17 Art House; a welcoming gallery space and a real experienced framing service. The imaginative duo behind the bang of tax storage to storing local art is Kirsten and Elaine, both long time residents of E17. They actually sprouted the shop only one week after the high end framing shop they were working for on Portobello Road closed down.
So, in one week they set up shop, and in two years they have
carved out a real sparkling gem for local art in East London. Because of their real quality and experience in picture framing, it has become a favourite and established relationships amongst artists and designers; so
you can find in the gallery fantastic prints, cards, limited edition works and
more from a diverse and exciting group of emerging and established local
artists and all for real great prices. The gallery has become so popular that
come October they will be expanding it, so you can find even more fresh and
exciting East London talent.
During the trail there will be two main exhibitions on show,
illustrator Robert Ball will have his fantastic prints on display in an
exhibition ‘East 17x17’ that really captures Walthamstow’s diverse and unique
collective culture. Alongside this artist-printmaker Kirsten Schmidt will have
up ‘The Magical Flute’, a collection of bright drawings and prints making ethereal
creatures from birds, squirrels, rabbits and more.
Both artists work have lots
of charm and flair, so it is really worth checking them out. There is a private
view on the 6th of Sept. where you can meet the artists and weave around the work with a
drink in hand to some live east-end piano jams…there will also be 10% off all exhibition
work on sale.
If you come on a weekend you will also be able to experience
the ‘Magnificent Magical Drawing Machine!' It is an incredible invention that
you can enter and somehow the machine draws your portrait...a total mystery! Depending
on the day you visit, the machine will be set to specific artistic types so make sure to come see this great invention.
If you have already visited the exhibits, come again on the
9th and bring
your kids because Kirsten will be holding free printmaking workshops; get messy
with paint and prints and walk home with your own artwork. ‘The WanderingScribe’ will be paying a visit too.
Scratch this place into your trail diary; it is a great representation
of Walthamstow’s friendly, welcoming and talented creative community. See some
great exhibits, get your portrait drawn by a ‘machine’ and find yourself a bargain
find of local art.
6-10 Church Hill, Stainforth Road entrance
E17 3RY
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