William Morris Gallery works with a variety of different community groups in the organisation of events and workshops using Gallery spaces and in the creation of special curator-led tours and visits. The focus of community engagement is to ensure that the Gallery’s collections, displays, exhibitions and programmes are accessible, welcoming and inclusive for all.
Community tours
William Morris Gallery offers free introductory community welcome tours to registered charities, social enterprises and constituted charitable groups in Waltham Forest and neighbouring boroughs. You’ll be introduced to the life and legacy of William Morris, see key objects from the collection and learn about the history of the Gallery. The Gallery also organises community tours for each of its special exhibitions. Learn more about group visits to the Gallery and booking community tours here.
Community Advisory Panel
The Community Advisory Panel gives local people the opportunity to help shape the creative programme and wider activities at William Morris Gallery. The panel provides invaluable feedback to support the development of the Gallery’s programme, helping the Gallery to remain accessible to all and better reflect the diverse interests of local communities, as well as national and international audiences.
2024 Community Advisory Panel applications are now open!
Love arts and culture? Love your Waltham Forest community?
We want to hear what you have to say. We’re looking for new members to join our existing Community Advisory Panel to help shape everything we do at William Morris Gallery.
We’re keen to hear from local residents with a range of experiences and perspectives. Please share this opportunity widely to support us in reaching people right across our Waltham Forest community.
What we’re looking for:
- A commitment to a 2-hour evening meeting 4 times a year held at the Gallery.
- Confident communicators, willing to share their thoughts and opinions openly.
- An interest in the arts, culture and championing community voices.
- People who value and respect the diverse experiences, backgrounds and identities of our Waltham Forest community.
- We’re particularly keen to hear from younger members of our community and those currently underrepresented in museums and galleries.
What we can offer:
- A unique opportunity to help shape the programme at an internationally acclaimed gallery.
- The chance to meet new members of your local community.
- Professional development opportunities.
- Private views of new exhibitions and invitations to special events.
- Reimbursement for travel and childcare costs.
How to apply:
Complete this application form.
Application deadline: Sunday 7 April
First meeting for new Community Advisory Panel members: 24 April, 5-9pm at William Morris Gallery
William Morris Community Residency Programme
Launched in 2023, this programme has been designed to support and uplift the work of community-based initiatives in Waltham Forest. In the first phase of the programme, we’re excited to announce that four local groups have been selected for a year-long residency and will be provided with space, funding and resources to support their work:
- Stories & Supper
- WalthamScribe
- Waltham Forest Twinning Association
- Waltham Forest Parent Forum
For more information about how to apply for future residencies, please email jo.bradford@walthamforest.gov.uk