Ercol, Walthamstow and a family business

Ercol, Walthamstow and a family business

A talk with Henry Tadros

TALKS AND DISCUSSIONS

Saturday 21 September 2024

Home / What's on/ Ercol, Walthamstow and a family business

A William Morris Design Line event for London Design Festival 2024.

We are delighted to welcome Henry Tadros, Chairman of Ercol and great grandson of its founder Lucian Ercolani. Henry will speak about the brand’s relationship to Walthamstow and how a furniture company has continued to thrive for over 100 years.

Ercolani’s family emigrated to Walthamstow in the 1890s and Lucian studied furniture making at the Shoreditch Technical Institute before founding Ercol. Henry is the fourth-generation Chairman of this family business. Tadros will speak about running Ercol, a company still based in the UK and committed to skilled craftsmanship and sustainability principles.

With furniture design and manufacturing having something of a renaissance in the local area, this talk will address the challenges and opportunities for the continued production of high-quality furniture in Britain, how this links to the principles of both William Morris and the Gallery’s current exhibition Art Without Heroes: Mingei, and the factors that have contributed to this iconic company’s enduring success.

Hosted by Hadrian Garrard, Director of William Morris Gallery. The talk will be followed by a Q&A and a chance to see Art Without Heroes: Mingei on its closing weekend.

6.30pm: Doors open
7pm – 8pm: Talk
8pm – 9pm: Q&A, drinks & private view

About Henry Tadros

Henry joined Ercol in 2010 and, like his father before him, began on the factory floor working across all departments before working in the office and founding L.Ercolani, the refined modernist design brand from the Ercol family.

About William Morris Design Line

William Morris Gallery is excited to be part of this year’s William Morris Design Line, which shines a light on the richness of Waltham Forest’s past and present creative community and encourages visitors to discover, learn and interact with an incredible range of design, making and creative activity.

The William Morris Design Line was created by Wood Street Walls in 2020, as part of the Local Trust’s Creative Civic Change Programme in collaboration with William Morris Big Local. It helped establish a community-led design route through Walthamstow as part of London Design Festival. The 2024 edition, programmed in partnership with Waltham Forest Council, will extend to Lea Bridge for the first time to showcase designers and makers across the Argall Industrial Area. It is a Design District for London Design Festival 2024.

Supporters and partners

Open Night: Pearl Home Records

Spoken Vinyl

SPECIAL EVENTS

Thursday 19 September 2024

Home / What's on/ Open Night: Pearl Home Records

A William Morris Design Line event for London Design Festival 2024.

Drop in to the Gallery for Spoken Vinyl, an Open Night with Pearl Home Records, the record label for DIY experimental music, sound art and spoken word.

Learn about record cutting with a vinyl lathe demo, take part in open mic, create record covers using photo collage, hear spoken word performances by Dominique & Nik, AKA SILKess Demon, Graham Clifford and Ruth Wiggins, and hear a special sound art playlist throughout the evening.

6.45pm – 7.00pm – Vinyl lathe demo
7.00pm – 8.00pm – Poetry open mic (approx. 10 slots – sign up at front door)
8.15pm –8.30pm – Sound art/spoken word by Dom and Nik AKA SILKess Demon
8.30pm – 9.00pm – Poetry sets by Graham Clifford & Ruth Wiggins
6-00pm – 9.00pm – Special sound art playlist and record cover collage making

Deeney’s Café will be open for organic beers, wines, snacks and other refreshments.

Artist biographies

Dominique and Nik co-run Pearl Home Records (founded in 2018), which is a small record label producing vinyl records of spoken word combined with sound art and art house music by various artists. Nik has reconditioned a rare record lathe machine that is able to cut into vinyl and produce a mono quality sound. In addition to hand made vinyl Pearl Home Records broadcast radio shows on Repeater Radio and organise various artist showcase evenings. They also facilitate ‘The Booth of Truth’ which is a portable workshop installation in which participants can record straight to vinyl. Dominique’s visual art is incorporated into the Pearl Home Records aesthetic whilst Nik operates the lathe as well as producing and mastering artists’ works. They are also performers in their own right, currently exploring the intersection of sound art and spoken word. They have previously created folk art in Jesus Licks and country art pop in SILKess Demon. They have worked with The Tate, The Southbank Centre, Blackhorse Road Workshops and Artillery for the Walthamstow Garden Party.

Graham Clifford was born in Portsmouth and grew up in Wiltshire. He studied Fine Art at the Swindon College of Art and Design, then at Middlesex University. At the University of East Anglia, he was awarded a master’s in creative writing. His first, award winning pamphlet collection is Welcome Back to the Country, 2011, published by Seren. Followed by his full-length collection The Hitting Game, in 2014, again by Seren. In January 2017, the Black Light Engine Room published Computer Generated Crash Test Dummies. March 2019, Against the Grain published Well. In Charge of the Gun was the follow up and most recent collection by The Black Light Engine Room in 2021. Graham also produced a poetry single with Pearl Home Records in 2019, featuring selected poems from Well. He currently lives in East London with his partner and two daughters.

Ruth Wiggins is a British poet. She is based in East London but is happiest in the great outdoors, something which deeply informs her work. Her poetry and essays have been published internationally, and her debut collection, The Lost Book of Barkynge was published by Shearsman in 2023 – this lyric history of Barking Abbey is told through the eyes of the women that lived there and has been described as ‘doing for poetry what Wolf Hall did for fiction.’ Ruth also has three pamphlets: Myrtle (Emma Press, 2014); a handful of string (Paekakariki Press, 2020); and Menalhyl (a private letterpress edition of earlier poems, 2023). In 2023 she produced a double single with Pearl Home Records entitled Holy Loaf which included spoken word extracts from The Lost Book of Barkynge.

Supporters and partners

Special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei

TOURS

Thursday 22 August 2024

Home / What's on/ Special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei

Visit William Morris Gallery for a special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei.

Art Without Heroes: Mingei is the largest ever exhibition in the UK dedicated to Mingei, the influential folk-craft movement that developed in Japan in the 1920s and 1930s. With works including ceramics, woodwork, paper, toys, textiles, photography and film, the exhibition will incorporate unseen pieces from significant private collections in the UK and Japan, along with museum loans and historic footage from the Mingei Film Archive.

See the exhibition with one of our curators as your guide.

Read more about the exhibition here.

Image: Bowl, Raku type earthenware with clear glaze over decoration painted in enamel colours, Japan, Tokyo, by Tomimoto Kenkichi, 1912. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Summer Holiday Family Activities

Self-guided activities to enjoy with children

Saturday 20 July - Sunday 1 September 2024

Home / What's on/ Summer Holiday Family Activities

Throughout the summer holidays, enjoy self-led activities at the Gallery.

Looking for things to do with the kids over the summer holidays? From July to September, drop in for self-led activities at the Gallery, which you’ll find on our first floor Landing and at our Front Desk.

The Landing – themed around Art Without Heroes: Mingei

Paper cup weaving – Weaving is one of the many crafts associated with Mingei. Collect a cup and twine from one of our baskets and follow the instructions provided to weave your own cup.

Make a sashiko bookmark – Use simple running and back stitch to embroider your own bookmark using traditional Japanese sashiko patterns. All materials provided, along with some patterns ideas to inspire you.

Colouring and drawing activities – Colour your own Kokeshi doll or turn an everyday object into a tsukumogami by adding human or animal features!

Morris Explorers Satchels – Sensory bags

Designed with SEND families in mind, these sensory bags has been created to help provide fun and interactive ways to explore William Morris Gallery. Inspired by William Morris’s satchel (which you can see on display at the Gallery), they include a sensory map, a visual story, and Visual Vocabulary cards (for people with non-verbal communication systems) that you can also download from our Access page before your arrival. All of these are designed to help build confidence in families before and during your visit.

Free to use. 6 bags available at a time from our Front Desk. No age limit.

Family Trails

To help guide you around our permanent collection ask at the Front Desk for our Family Trails. Start by exploring the galleries with Indigo the Bird, who’ll help teach you all about the life and work of William Morris. Indigo can also take you on a trip around our special exhibition, Art Without Heroes: Mingei, before following the trail on an adventure around the garden with Fafnir the Dragon. When you’ve completed the trails, claim your prize!

Flow State Sessions

Creativity & Wellbeing

WELLBEING

Sunday 9 June - Sunday 22 September 2024

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Join us for Flow State Sessions, free monthly mindful making sessions for those who have low to moderate mental health needs.

The William Morris Gallery is running monthly Flow State Sessions from June to September 2024 for those registered with the NHS Social Prescribing and Talking Therapies service, as well as those already accessing community mental health support groups. 

These sessions will run from 2pm to 4pm on Sundays on the following dates: 9 June, 30 June, 21 July, 11 August and 22 September at the Gallery.

Run by art therapist Shan Rixon who is experienced in using the arts for wellbeing, Shan’s aim is to create a calm, accessible and supportive space, where participants feel at ease to learn new skills and inspired to nurture their creativity.

Each session will include a grounding or mindfulness exercise followed by a crafting activity chosen to activate characteristics of Flow – the mental state in which a person performing an activity is fully immersed in a feeling of energised focus, full involvement, and enjoyment in the process of the activity.

Upcoming dates:

Sunday 21 July, 2 – 4pm: Stitching
Sunday 11 August, 2 – 4pm: Pottery
Sunday 22 September, 2-4pm: Weaving

These workshops are designed to support those with low to moderate mental health needs such as mild anxiety or low mood. They are also suitable for those feeling isolated, stressed or overwhelmed due to having an ongoing health condition or being a carer, for example. As we are an arts organisation rather than mental health providers, these workshops are not suitable for those with complex mental health needs or for those in crisis. If you are in need of support, please contact the Waltham Forest Single Point of Access.

If you have any questions, comments or additional access requirements, please do not hesitate to contact Christine Lai, Public Programme Curator: christine.lai@walthamforest.gov.uk

These sessions are part of a new strand of programming at William Morris Gallery, focused on embedding health and wellbeing through creativity.

Artist biography

Shan is an art psychotherapist with a background in anthropology and documentary photography. Before training as a therapist, she worked in museums and galleries for many years delivering creative programmes for young people. She enjoys hands-on making such as collage, crochet and ceramics.

Of mixed heritage, Shan is drawn to conversations around identity, community and social justice. Alongside working on community programmes, she manages a service in the NHS for adults with complex needs, using the arts to support wellbeing.

With an understanding of the fear some have around using art materials, Shan’s aim is to create a calm, accessible and supportive space, where participants feel at ease to learn new skills and inspired to nurture their creativity.

Picture This

Creatives Unleashed at William Morris Gallery

LATE EVENT

Thursday 25 July 2024

Home / What's on/ Picture This

An evening of creative workshops, circus, art and music, showcasing the talent of residents in Waltham Forest.

If you, or someone you know, is interested in performance or a career in the creative industries, come along to Picture This on Thursday 25 July.

We are pleased to announce Future Formed’ s first ever public collaboration with William Morris Gallery, Picture This. Future Formed offers young people insight and exposure to the creative industries. This event is designed to showcase the talents of Waltham Forest residents working with Future Formed, as well as artists and facilitators who they have worked with over the last year. Picture This is an opportunity for everyone to meet and connect.

The night is made up of 4 parts.

6pm to 7:30pm – Table top game design workshop led by Mayamada (booking required)
6pm to 7:30pm – Poetry workshop led by Desree (booking required)
From 7:30pm – Live musical and circus performances including foot juggling to rap to opera and everything in between.
6pm to 9pm – Projections of artwork and short films which have been created by Future Formers.

It’ll be a relaxed evening with plenty of opportunities to meet and chat to the Future Formed team as well as the artists and residents they work with. Don’t miss it!

The Gallery’s special exhibition Art Without Heroes: Mingei – is still taking place and the café will be open for refreshments.

Read more about the work of Future Formed here.

Image by James Wood

About the workshop leaders:

Nigel Twumasi is a former software engineer turned creative entrepreneur. He is the co-founder of Mayamada, a storytelling brand that spans comics, video games, and youth engagement. In 2019, Nigel was part of the nationwide 56 Black Men campaign. In 2023, he was appointed as a member of the London Mayor’s Cultural Leadership Board and Children’s Media Conference Advisory Committee. In 2024, Nigel was appointed to the Young BAFTA Advisory Group and continues to be a keen advocate for diversity within creative industries.

Nigel Twumasi. Photography by Jack Dalton.

Desree is an award-winning spoken word artist, facilitator, and producer, has held prestigious roles such as Poet in Residence for Glastonbury 2022 and TEDx Speaker. Beyond performances, Desree’s work graces publications like Joy/Us, Wetgrain Poetry, and she has been featured on Life and Rhymes with Benjamin Zephaniah. Desree’s diverse contributions also extend to her role as a commissioned playright, curator of live events, and visual media. Her pamphlet “I Find My Strength In Simple Things” was published by Burning Eye Books in 2021, and her debut collection slated for release in 2025 with Bad Betty Press. Read more.

Desree. Photography by George Lawrence.

Crafting 'setta' - traditional Japanese sandals

Seppuku Pistols: Geta Workshop

Make your own!

TALKS AND DISCUSSIONS

Sunday 4 August 2024

Home / What's on/ Seppuku Pistols: Geta Workshop

A ‘geta’ talk and workshop. Part of the Art Without Heroes events programme.

Seppuku Pistols are a band who play traditional Japanese instruments such as the taiko drums, the bell, the shamisen and the bamboo flute, with chaotic fervor. Seeing a performance from Seppuku Pistols, in their folk costume and ‘setta’ footwear, is like travelling back in time to the Edo era of 150 years ago. At their guerrilla live performances held throughout Japan, they call out to the public, “We are rebelling against the convenience of modern world and rally for a return to a more simple life.”

Mr. Suzuki, a member of the Seppuku Pistols, is one of only three ‘setta’ and ‘geta’ footwear craftsmen in Japan today. Following the Seppuku Pistols performance at 12pm, he will host a talk and demonstration on the history of ‘geta’ and ‘setta’ (types of Japanese sandal) and then lead a making workshop.

All materials are provided at this workshop – you’ll learn how to make geta that fit you and keep your feet healthy! This workshop is for adults (age 18+).

About the artists

Seppuku Pistols was started by four ex-punks because of the Great East Japan Earthquake and the nuclear power plant explosion in 2011. Their very first performance was on the line of the no-entry-zone around the nuclear power plant. Since then, they have been “rebelling against the deceptive modernisation in the indigenous Edo style way” and have about 30 members all over Japan.

Seppuku Pistols

Performance

Sunday 4 August 2024

Home / What's on/ Seppuku Pistols

See a performance by Seppuku Pistols. Part of the Art Without Heroes events programme.

Seppuku Pistols play traditional Japanese instruments such as the taiko drums, the bell, the shamisen and the bamboo flute, with chaotic fervor. Seeing a performance from Seppuku Pistols, in their folk costume and ‘setta’ footwear, is like travelling back in time to the Japanese Edo era of 150 years ago. At their guerrilla live performances held throughout Japan, they call out to the public, “We are rebelling against the convenience of modern world and rally for a return to a more simple life.”

This performance starts at 12pm. We’d recommend arriving at least 10 minutes before the start time.

A ‘geta’ talk and making workshop (for adults) follows this performance at 2pm. Read more and book for this event HERE.

About the artists

Photo of the Art Without Heroes exhibition.

Art Without Heroes: A Conversation on Mingei

At Japan House London

OFF SITE

Wednesday 17 July 2024

Home / What's on/ Art Without Heroes: A Conversation on Mingei

Exploring the concepts behind the Art Without Heroes: Mingei exhibition.

William Morris Gallery’s Róisín Inglesby will be joined in conversation by Sam Thorne, Director General & CEO of Japan House London, who has contributed to the major new publication ‘Mingei: Art without Heroes’ by Yale University Press accompanying the exhibition, to explore Mingei’s origins, interpretations and contemporary implications. The conversation will also touch upon the groundbreaking Mingei Film Archive project by filmmaker and producer Marty Gross, which restored and digitized archival film on Japanese craft. Footage from this project is part of the exhibition at William Morris Gallery, and a selection of the Archive’s short films will be shown at Japan House London in July.

After the event, guests are encouraged to visit the Design Discoveries exhibition in the Gallery at Japan House London, which will remain open until 8.30pm. Here, visitors can view Yanagi Sori’s Mingei cutlery on display alongside further contemporary design concepts.

Please note that filming and photography may take place at this event.

Mini Morris

Flower Crowns

WORKSHOPS

Thursday 18 July 2024

Home / What's on/ Mini Morris

Mini Morris. Toddler-friendly crafting for 2-5 year olds.

Be inspired by nature and join us for a day of outdoor fun and creativity! Little ones will explore nature and make their own flower crowns.

Mini Morris sessions are now DROP IN ONLY. FREE. Donations welcome.

Choose from:

10:00am to 11:00am.
11:45am to 12:45pm.

As this can be a messy session, please wear or bring old clothes. Aprons are available.

All sessions include the craft activity, singing and a snack to take away.

Drop in with limited capacity. Please arrive on time and sign up at the front desk. A minimum of one adult per 2 children.

Image: Paula Corberan

Storyteller speaking. Sitting with a group on the floor.

Family Day

Interactive Storytelling: Heart of Pride

WORKSHOPS

Saturday 27 July 2024

Home / What's on/ Family Day

A celebration of Waltham Forest Pride 2024, join storyteller Luke Saydon as he takes you on a journey to celebrate the unique you!

Join us for an enchanting journey where music, storytelling, movement, and colours come together to celebrate our very own superpower – our individuality. Experience the magic of pride as we share the inspiring tale of Gilbert Baker and the Pride flag. Through interactive storytelling, sensory creations and movement, we will embrace self-love and express our unique brilliance.

We welcome all LBGTQIA+ families, friends, and allies.

Numbers are limited for each of the storytelling sessions and we do expect this event to be busy, so please arrive in plenty of time to sign up for a session at our front desk.

The activity is aimed at children aged 5-12 years but the whole family is welcome!

Activities will take place in Gallery on the First Floor Landing.

Session start times:

1pm
1.45pm
2.30pm
3.15pm

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Waltham Forest Pride 2024 takes place at Fellowship Square from 12pm to 8pm and is a short walk from the Gallery on Forest Road. With activities and entertainment for everyone, there will be stalls, food and drink, queer performances and more. Waltham Forest Pride is presented by local charity elop.

Volunteer Open Day

Join our volunteering team

SPECIAL EVENTS

Sunday 23 June 2024

Home / What's on/ Volunteer Open Day

Interested in volunteering? Come to our open day to find out how.

Whether you want to learn a new skill, gain experience to add to your CV or take part in something valuable for the community in your spare time, volunteering could be for you. The Gallery’s volunteering programme caters for everyone from beginners to experts (aged 18 and over). You do not need to have any experience of museums and galleries to become part of the volunteer team

Come along on Sunday 23 June for the Gallery’s Volunteer Open Day. An opportunity to meet the William Morris Gallery team and find out more about the different volunteer opportunities available. There are currently roles within Learning, Marketing, Events and Front of House.

Drop in from 10am to 1pm. No need to register or pre-book.

If you are interested in volunteering but are unable to attend the open day, please register your interest by emailing: sarah.vallois@walthamforest.gov.uk

Read more about the Gallery’s volunteering programme.

In Conversation

With Olivia Laing & Jeremy Deller

TALKS AND DISCUSSIONS

Saturday 6 July 2024

Home / What's on/ In Conversation

Join acclaimed writer Olivia Laing in conversation with Turner Prize-winning artist Jeremy Deller.

“If Morris saw in the industrialised, stratified and exploitative world of the Victorians ‘sordid, aimless, ugly confusion . . . the dull squalor of civilisation’, imagine what he’d make of the present day. Ecological catastrophe, species collapse, and still the unstoppable obsession with growth, the blind faith in technology as a get-out card. The metaverse, colonies on Mars, microplastics, coups carried out on Twitter: how Morris would have raged and grieved.” Olivia Laing, The Garden Against Time, 2024

Both Olivia Laing and Jeremy Deller are deeply influenced by the utopian socialism of the artist, writer and activist William Morris. In 2015, Deller curated an exhibition about Morris’s work, Love is Enough which brought together his work alongside Andy Warhol’s. In her new book, The Garden Against Time, Laing explores the fertile vision of a common Eden propagated by Morris.

In this special talk at William Morris Gallery, Olivia Laing will be in conversation with Jeremy Deller to discuss Morris’s utopian vision and what it means in our own century of late capitalism and ecological catastrophe.

The event will be chaired by Hadrian Garrard, Director, William Morris Gallery.

6.00pm: Doors open
6.30pm – 7.30pm: Talk and Q&A
7.30pm – 7.45pm: Book signing
7.45pm – 9pm: Drinks and Private View

Olivia Laing is a widely acclaimed writer and critic. She’s the author of seven books, including To the River (2011), The Trip to Echo Spring (2013), The Lonely City (2016) and Everybody (2021). She’s a Fellow of the Royal Society of Literature and in 2018 was awarded the Windham-Campbell Prize for non-fiction. Her books have been translated into twenty-one languages. Laing writes on art and culture for the Guardian, Financial Times and New York Times, among many other publications. She’s written catalogue essays on a variety of contemporary artists, including Andy Warhol, Agnes Martin, Derek Jarman, Wolfgang Tillmans and Chantal Joffe. Her collected essays on art, Funny Weather: Art in an Emergency, were published in 2020.

Portrait: Sandra Mickiewicz

Jeremy Deller studied Art History at the Courtauld Institute and at Sussex University. He won the Turner Prize in 2004 for his work Memory Bucket and represented Britain in the 55th Venice Biennale in 2013. His projects over the past two decades, such as Battle of Orgreave (2001),We’re Here Because We’re Here (2016) as well as the documentary Everybody in the Place: An Incomplete History of Britain 1984-1992( 2019) have influenced the conventional map of contemporary art. In 2015 he curated the exhibition Love is Enough: William Morris & Andy Warhol at Modern Art Oxford bringing together iconic and rarely seen works by two giants of the 19th and 20th centuries.

Portrait: David Clack

Yes! Art Fair

E17 Art Trail

LATE EVENT

Thursday 13 June 2024

Home / What's on/ Yes! Art Fair

Celebrate E17 Art Trail artists at this special event, launching the Yes! Art initiative. An Open Night event at William Morris Gallery.

The Yes! Art Fair is a celebration of local emerging and established artists from this year’s E17 Art Trail. Hosted by William Morris Gallery.

Yes! Art is more than just an art fair. Selected artists are showcasing seminal pieces of work, with some demonstrating the processes behind its making. You’ll be able to connect with artists and their work, enjoy discovering the stories and the processes behind the artworks, and have the opportunity to become direct supporters of each artist’s creative practice.

Read more about the event on the E17 Art Trail programme.

This is a launch event for Yes! Art, a new initiative from the E17 Art Trail team.

Part of the Gallery’s Open Nights programme on selected Thursdays throughout the summer, you can also explore the permanent collection, see the Art Without Heroes: Mingei exhibition, buy from the Gallery shop and enjoy a drink at Deeney’s.

What is the value of public digital art and digital making with local people?

E17 Art Trail

LATE EVENT

Thursday 6 June 2024

Home / What's on/ What is the value of public digital art and digital making with local people?

Explore the value of public digital art and digital making as part of the E17 Art Trail, in collaboration with art collective Compiler.

Together with invited artists and producers, this event explores how digital art and hands-on digital making can help us connect with local places and culture, and engage with each other in meaningful ways. Discussion will delve into how artist-led digital activities can be uniquely supported in the context of art trails and festival models. The panel will also explore the potential of innovative and interactive public art installations to inspire and connect new audiences.

Read more about the event on the E17 Art Trail programme.

About the speakers

Yinka Danmole is a cultural producer interested in cultivating meaningful connections between people and places. He is currently the Creative Director of Abandon Normal Devices and has previously worked for notable cultural organisations such as Mediale, the Manchester International Festival and Creative Black Country.

Jazmin Morris is a Creative Computing Artist and Educator based in Leeds. Her practice interrogates the historical trajectories of modern technology and critically speculates on the evolving landscape of human-computer interaction. Using free and open-source tools, Jazmin crafts participatory digital experiences that challenge power dynamics and hierarchies within cyberspace, with a particular emphasis on the nuanced processes of simulating culture and identity. Despite her critical approach, she retains a fond nostalgia for the early days of the internet and the classic gaming icon, Super Mario 64.

Kristina Pulejkova is a visual artist based in London. Her interdisciplinary practice is informed by science and technology. Kristina’s work explores how the use of technology might lead to greater forms of sustainability in human-nature relationships.

Compiler is a digital art and curation collective based in Walthamstow E17. It is led by Tanya Boyarkina and Oscar Cass-Darweish. They aim to create accessible works and events through which audiences with different levels of technical awareness can delve deeper into digital technologies that shape day-to-day experience.

Doors open at 6.30pm for a 6.45pm start.

Adult and child participating in craft activities.

Mini Morris

Mini Potters! Nature inspired clay fun

WORKSHOPS

Thursday 20 June 2024

Home / What's on/ Mini Morris

Mini Morris. Toddler-friendly crafting for 2-5 year olds.

Get ready for a hands-on adventure into the world of pottery inspired by the beauty of nature! Join us for Mini Morris in June and dive into some Mingei-inspired clay art.

Mini Morris sessions are now DROP IN ONLY and please note that the times of our sessions have changed.

As this can be a messy session, please wear or bring old clothes. Aprons are available.

All sessions include a tour of the Gallery, the craft activity, singing and snack time.

Drop in with limited capacity. Please arrive on time and sign up at the front desk. A minimum of one adult per 2 children.

Amnesty International UK x Refugee Week

A collaborative art show celebrating home.

LATE EVENT

Thursday 20 June 2024

Home / What's on/ Amnesty International UK x Refugee Week

Welcoming Amnesty International UK for a special event to mark Refugee Week 2024. An Open Night event at William Morris Gallery.

Join Amnesty International UK for an evening of shared art and celebration at the Gallery.

What does home mean to you? Get involved in a collaborative workshop exploring home, journeys and solidarity, facilitated by artist Tasnim Mahdy.

The whole Gallery will be open late, to explore the collections, Art Without Heroes exhibition and to enjoy a drink at Deeney’s Café (bar). All welcome.

Presented as part of Refugee Week: The world’s largest arts and culture festival celebrating the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees. www.refugeeweek.org.uk

The theme for Refugee Week 2024 is “Our Home”. From the places we gather to share meals to our collective home, planet earth: everyone is invited to celebrate what our Our Home means to them.

A group of people working on embroidery.

Making Home

A collaborative embroidery for Refugee Week

WORKSHOPS

Saturday 22 June 2024

Home / What's on/ Making Home

Join community residents Stories & Supper to make your mark on a collective home-themed embroidery for Refugee Week.

Celebrate Refugee Week and contribute to a collaborative embroidery on the theme of home. Add a word, an image or just a stitch to help us reimagine what home means. Plus, enjoy pop-up poetry readings while you sew.

This is a chance to get to know the Stories & Supper community of refugees, people seeking asylum and local residents, currently in residence at the William Morris Gallery.

All materials will be provided. Suitable for all ages (children must be supervised). No previous experience of embroidery necessary. All stitches, no matter how simple, are welcome!

Taking place on the Gallery’s first floor Landing.

Read more about our community groups in residency.

Presented as part of Refugee Week: The world’s largest arts and culture festival celebrating the contributions, creativity and resilience of refugees. www.refugeeweek.org.uk

The theme for Refugee Week 2024 is “Our Home”. From the places we gather to share meals to our collective home, planet earth: everyone is invited to celebrate what our Our Home means to them.

If you’re visiting to participate in this event, you can also drop in to Winn’s Gallery (in Lloyd Park) to see Home: An exhibition. Including new work from the Stories & Supper community of refugees and asylum seekers, photo portraits by Laura Martinez, plus work from students at Leyton Sixth Form College. You can visit from 11am to 5pm from 21 to 23 June.

Creative Health Late

For Creativity and Wellbeing Week 2024

LATE EVENT

Thursday 23 May 2024

Home / What's on/ Creative Health Late

Find out more about the local creative health offer available to Waltham Forest residents.

We’re proud to be taking part in this year’s Creativity and Wellbeing Week. At this special event we’re welcoming two groups, who will be introducing their work in the borough.

In the Café you’ll find SnugArt, a peer supportive community for individuals facing mental health challenges. SnugArt, hosted by CREST Waltham Forest, a local charity with a 29 history of supporting mental health of local residents, offers a safe space for individuals to explore their emotions and experiences through various artistic mediums.

On our first floor Landing, local music charity Soundcastle welcomes over 50s wanting to discover how learning to play an instrument and singing can improve mental health. Soundcastle runs regular music sessions to support wellbeing through creative music-making.

Meet, chat and enjoy a taster session with each group.

6-8pm. Free. Drop-in sessions.

This event launches a new strand of programming at William Morris Gallery, focused on embedding health and wellbeing through creativity. Watch out for more events and activities this summer. Organised in partnership with London Borough of Waltham Forest Public Health Social Prescribing team.

Family Day

Nature's Touch: Handcrafted Pinch Pot Workshop

WORKSHOPS

Saturday 22 June 2024

Home / What's on/ Family Day

Join artist Noriko Nagaoka and create your own air-dry clay pinch pot, inspired by the ceramics in the Art Without Heroes: Mingei exhibition.

Embrace the harmony of nature and the timeless artistry of ceramics showcased in the Art Without Heroes: Mingei exhibition by crafting your own unique pot to treasure. Decorate your creation with delicate pressed flowers and fabric fragments, infusing it with your personal touch.

While we’ll provide all the materials that you’ll need, we encourage you to bring along any special pieces you’d like to incorporate into your design. You can also explore your artistic flair with our selection of carving tools, allowing you to carve intricate patterns and further personalize your masterpiece

The activity is suitable for children aged 5+ years.

All materials will be provided.

Activities will take place in Gallery on the Second Floor learning rooms

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Apple wallpaper featuring apples and foliage. In red, blue and white.

Curatorial Interpretation

Professional Development Course for Young People

TRAINING COURSE

Monday 22 - Friday 26 July 2024

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A professional development opportunity for adults aged 18-25.

William Morris Gallery, with support from National Heritage Lottery Fund, is offering adults aged 18-25 the opportunity to take part in a curatorial interpretation professional development course, inspired by the temporary exhibition launching at the Gallery in November 2024. William Morris and Art from the Islamic World introduces William Morris’s personal collection of artworks from the Islamic world and how they came to influence his pattern-making. The exhibition is co-curated by Rowan Bain and Qaisra Khan.

We are looking to recruit 20 people with an interest in this exhibition to enhance the online interpretation of objects and stories in the exhibition. This five-day professional development opportunity will be run by Shaheen Kasmani.

Over the course of five days, you will work in groups with Shaheen Kasmani and the William Morris Gallery team to create your own online interpretation of objects from the exhibition. The opportunity will include having access to professional specialists who can provide critique and guidance on your work. The opportunity also includes a museum visit and career advice from leading sector specialists.

We want to create space for young Muslims or young people with Muslim heritage and we will be prioritising these applicants.

About Shaheen Kasmani

Shaheen Kasmani is an artist, creative producer, curator and educator. With a MA in Visual Traditional & Islamic Arts, her interests lie in narratives around coloniality and heritage, art, architecture and patterns. Shaheen was the lead curator for the Ramadan Pavilion at the V&A Museum, and co-curated The Past is Now exhibition at Birmingham Museum, has exhibited her work in the UK and Europe, guest lectures at universities in the US, and was published last year. Shaheen has worked with universities, museums, schools, community groups, art collectives, CICs and independently to deliver Teacher CPD, classes, workshops, publications, courses, lectures and exhibitions, and is passionate about centering overlooked narratives and all things creative.

Supporters and partners

Family Day

Sashiko & Tsumugi

WORKSHOPS

Saturday 18 May 2024

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With Tomo Yoshizawa and Mika Sembongi.

For May’s Family Day we have a full day of activities starting on Saturday morning!

Tsumugi weaving is a traditional Japanese craft inspired by the Mingei movement and developed by Living National Treasure Munehiro Rikizo. Join Munehiro’s granddaughter Tomo Yoshizawa for a deep dive in the design process of these unique textiles, as she showcases sketchbooks, weaving designs and sample threads alongside fabric from the Munehiro workshop. This is talk and demonstration (non participatory) from 10am to 12pm.

Then at 1pm, textile artist Mika Sembongi is hosting family sashiko workshops. The term sashiko means ‘little stabs’. Traditionally used for reinforcing or repairing clothes and damaged fabrics, the sashiko technique is now often used for decoration. Our Art Without Heroes: Mingei exhibition has some beautiful examples of sashiko, used to decorate a kimono and increase the durability of a pair of boots and clothing worn by rural workers. Mika will introduce this artform and teach you how to make a sashiko bookmark to take home.

Activites are suitable for children aged 5+ years.

All materials will be provided.

Activities will take place in Gallery on the First Floor Landing

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Mini Morris

Little Birdie Stitch

WORKSHOPS

Thursday 16 May 2024

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Mini Morris. Toddler-friendly crafting for 2-5 year olds.

Discover the work of May Morris and create an embroidery piece using hessian scrim. Inspired by the birds in one of May Morris’s designs, we’ll be practicing our stitching skills and creating a piece of embroidery to take home.

Mini Morris sessions are now DROP IN ONLY.

Morning Session: 10am – 11.30am

Afternoon Session: 1pm – 2.30pm

As this can be a messy session, please wear or bring old clothes. Aprons are available. All sessions include a tour of the Gallery, the craft activity, singing and snack time. Drop in with limited capacity. Please arrive on time and sign up at the front desk.

Please note: One adult per 2 children.

Dementia-Friendly Tour

of Art Without Heroes: Mingei

SPECIAL EVENTS

Monday 13 May 2024

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A special event for Dementia Action Week 2024.

Art Without Heroes: Mingei is the most wide-ranging exhibition in the UK dedicated to Mingei, the influential folk-craft movement that developed in Japan in the 1920s and 1930s. With works including ceramics, woodwork, paper, toys, textiles, photography and film, the exhibition will incorporate unseen pieces from significant private collections in the UK and Japan, along with museum loans and historic footage from the Mingei Film Archive.

Organised in partnership with Waltham Forest Council’s Intensive Dementia Outreach Service as part of Dementia Action Week 2024 (13th – 19th May), William Morris Gallery would like to invite people affected by dementia to a ticket-only curator-led tour of this exciting new exhibition.

The Gallery staff have received Dementia Friends training and a member of the Outreach Service will be on-hand to support the tour.

Please note that this event is free and is ticket only.

Film Night

The Lotus and the Swan

FILM

Thursday 27 June 2024

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Join us for the UK premiere screening of Nirmal Chander’s The Lotus and the Swan.

For the Gallery’s June Film Night, see Nirmal Chander’s documentary The Lotus and the Swan, spotlighting the inspiring tale of Sardar Gurcharan Singh, founder of Delhi Blue Pottery in India. Afterwards, you will have a chance to see his work on display as part of our Art Without Heroes: Mingei exhibition.

The Lotus and the Swan (2023)

Directed by Nirmal Chander. Produced by Delhi Blue Pottery Trust.

“Hands destined to mould a thing of beauty”.

Thus wrote James Cousins, eminent writer, of a young Sikh potter he met in Japan in 1922. The film celebrates the life and legacy of Sardar Gurcharan Singh, the father of studio pottery in India. Daddyji, as he came to be fondly called, introduced the underpaid and undervalued craft of pottery to the imagination of the Indian masses with plates, jugs and teapots, ensuring that colour and beauty are accessible to everybody.

71 mins. With English subtitles.

About Nirmal Chander:

Nirmal Chander has worked in the field of non-fiction since 1996 as editor, director and producer. He has directed more than 10 documentaries and has over thirty editing credits. His films have travelled to many international festivals, winning multiple awards and receiving appreciation for their choice and presentation of characters, storytelling skills and humanistic approach. Some of his films have been telecast on BBC Online and Indian TV channels such as NDTV and Doordarshan. He is the recipient of three National Film Awards from the President of India for excellence in cinema and his documentary Moti Bagh was an Oscar entry from India in 2019.

This event forms part of the Mingei on the Move public programme, designed in response to the Gallery’s Art Without Heroes: Mingei exhibition. The programme spotlights the diasporic nature of Mingei and why artists from all cultures and backgrounds are continually inspired by the movement’s ethos.

Image: Still from The Lotus and the Swan, Nirmal Chander

The Works of Geoffrey Chaucer by Kelmscott Press.

Mini Morris

We love books!

WORKSHOPS

Thursday 18 April 2024

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Mini Morris. Toddler-friendly crafting for 2-5 year olds.

In April we’re sharing William Morris’s love of books. Did you know he wrote one of the longest poems in the English Language? He set up his own printing company and produced beautifully designed books. Join us to make a print block based on the tale of Chanticleer and the Fox from the Kelmscott Chaucer to print on a small bag.

Mini Morris sessions are now DROP IN ONLY at both 10am and 1pm. FREE. Donations welcome.

As this can be a messy session, please wear or bring old clothes. Aprons are available.

All sessions include a tour of the Gallery, the craft activity, singing and snack time

Two shadow puppets in black against a white background. A teapot and a cup, each with feet.

Family Day

Shadow Puppet Tsukumogami Theatre

WORKSHOPS

Saturday 20 April 2024

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An adventure in Japanese folklore.

In Japanese folklore, when an everyday object is over 99 years old it can gain a spirit. The spirit brings the object to life and gives it a mischievous nature. This concept is known as tsukumogami.

For our April Family Day we’re inviting you to step into the enchanting world of Japanese folklore as you design and create your own tsukumogami shadow puppets. From teapots to tongs, be inspired by the everyday objects in our latest exhibition, Art Without Heroes: Mingei.

The activity is suitable for children aged 5+ years.

All materials will be provided.

Activities will take place in the Gallery’s first floor lounge.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Family Box clothes donations please!

Our Family Box contains all the essentials you may need for your under 5s when visiting the Gallery. We have nappies, wipes, bibs and spare clothes as well as sanitary items for yourself. These are free and available for anyone who needs them. Just ask at reception or the learning team during activities.

This Family Day we’re requesting under 5s clothes donations, if you have any items to spare. We always like to ensure that we include re-used and recycled products to reduce waste as much as possible. We’re currently looking for:

0-3 month vests, 8 needed
3-6 month vests, 6 needed
6-9 month vests, 6 needed
12-18 month vests, 4 needed
18-24 vests, 4 needed
2-3 years trousers/tops – 4 sets needed
3-4 years trousers/tops – 4 sets needed

Clothes need to be clean and in reasonable condition. Please give your donations to the front desk on arrival or to the activities team on the day.

Sashiko embroidery in a circular pattern (Japanese technique) joining 3 pieces of material together (3 shades of blue fabric)

Sashiko & Sip

Hosted by Mika Sembongi

WORKSHOPS

Thursday 25 April 2024

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A relaxed evening of sashiko stitching and sipping sake inspired by the Art Without Heroes: Mingei exhibition.

Literally meaning ‘little stabs’, sashiko is a method of sewing together one or more layers of cloth with running stitch. Used to reinforce fabric to make it last longer, the technique is characterised by distinctive stitching patterns.

Hosted by Mika Sembongi of the Monday Mending Club, participants have the opportunity to explore various sashiko patterns, spanning from AI-generated William Morris designs to the traditional Uroko and Shippō stitches. All alongside some sake or a non-alcoholic substitute.

Please book for your one-hour sashiko slot (6pm, 7pm or 8pm). You are welcome to come any time between 6pm – 9pm as there will also be a chance to see the exhibition, have a drink and try some basket weaving on our first-floor lounge.

About the artist:

Born in Japan, Mika brings Manga influences to her hand printed designs and is highly skilled in the traditional mending technique, sashiko. Mika co-runs The Monday Mending Club, a monthly social sewing night at Big Penny Social, and holds monthly family sewing mornings at Leyton Green Studios, which aim to encourage families to enjoy mending clothing together as a weekend activity.

Anti-Poetry Workshop

With WalthamScribe

WORKSHOPS

Sunday 7 April 2024

Home / What's on/ Anti-Poetry Workshop

Experiment, challenge, and redefine the art of verse.

Are you ready to break free from the conventional boundaries of poetry and explore the captivating world of anti-poetry?

Join WalthamScribe for an immersive workshop at William Morris Gallery, designed for adults seeking to embrace the unconventional.

Anti-poetry is a revolutionary form of expression that defies traditional poetic norms. It celebrates the beauty in chaos, the profound in the mundane, and the rebellion against conventional language structures. Through anti-poetry, participants have the freedom to experiment, challenge, and redefine the art of verse.

Led by local anti-hero Fletch Fletcher.

Organised by WalthamScribe, currently in residency at William Morris Gallery. WalthamScribe is a creative writing group that explores different forms of storytelling in guided workshop sessions around Waltham Forest.

Mingei / Art Without Heroes – Panel discussion

London Craft Week 2024

TALKS AND DISCUSSIONS

Wednesday 15 May 2024

Home / What's on/ Mingei / Art Without Heroes – Panel discussion

A deep dive into our new book Mingei / Art Without Heroes with Roisin Inglesby, William Morris Gallery Curator, and contributors Yuko Kikuchi, Aaron Angell and Dasom Sung. Chaired by Tomo Yoshizawa. For London Craft Week 2024.

Join us for an exciting evening exploring and expanding on the themes of the book, Mingei / Art Without Heroes.

Originating in Japan in the 1920s, the Mingei movement was based on the principle that beauty is inherent in handmade, everyday objects created by anonymous craftspeople. Spearheaded by the philosopher Yanagi Sōetsu, and potters Hamada Shōji and Bernard Leach, the movement sought to elevate the status of folk craft in a rapidly modernising society.

Mingei / Art Without Heroes covers a wide range of objects associated with Mingei, from ceramics and furniture to textiles and toys, alongside a series of profiles of leading designers and makers working in Japan today. Contributors from a variety of backgrounds explore Mingei’s origins, interpretations and contemporary implications, shedding new light on the ways in which the principles of the movement remain relevant to today’s personal, social and environmental concerns.

6pm – 6:30pm Doors Open
6:30pm – 7:30pm Panel Discussion
7:30pm – 9pm Private View

Mingei / Art Without Heroes is edited by Roisin Inglesby and published by Yale University Press. Read more about the book here.

Tomo Yoshizawa is a journalist and cultural translator, based in Japan.

In collaboration with The Japan Foundation.

Supporters and partners

Special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei

TOURS

Thursday 19 September 2024

Home / What's on/ Special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei

Visit William Morris Gallery for a special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei.

See the exhibition with one of our curators as your guide.

Read more about the exhibition here.

Image: Ikupasuy (Ainu language, prayer stick). Image © National Museums Scotland

Special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei

TOURS

Thursday 25 July 2024

Home / What's on/ Special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei

Visit William Morris Gallery for a special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei.

Art Without Heroes: Mingei is the widest-ranging exhibition in the UK dedicated to Mingei, the influential folk-craft movement that developed in Japan in the 1920s and 1930s. With works including ceramics, woodwork, paper, toys, textiles, photography and film, the exhibition incorporates unseen pieces from significant private collections in the UK and Japan, along with museum loans and historic footage from the Mingei Film Archive.

See the exhibition with one of our curators as your guide.

Read more about the exhibition here.

Image: From the collections of the Crafts Study Centre, University for the Creative Arts.

Special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei

TOURS

Thursday 27 June 2024

Home / What's on/ Special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei

Visit William Morris Gallery for a special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei.

See the exhibition with one of our curators as your guide.

Read more about the exhibition here.

Image: Bowl, Raku type earthenware with clear glaze over decoration painted in enamel colours, Japan, Tokyo, by Tomimoto Kenkichi, 1912. © Victoria and Albert Museum, London

Special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei

TOURS

Thursday 16 May 2024

Home / What's on/ Special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei

Visit William Morris Gallery for a special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei.

See the exhibition with one of our curators as your guide.

Read more about the exhibition here.

Image: Six-fold screen, stencilled and resist-dyed silk on a wooden frame showing a map of Okinawa, by Serizawa Keisuke (1895-1984), Japan, ca.1940. © Serizawa Keiko. Victoria and Albert Museum

Special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei

TOURS

Thursday 25 April 2024

Home / What's on/ Special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei

Visit William Morris Gallery for a special curator-led tour of Art Without Heroes: Mingei.

See the exhibition with one of our curators as your guide.

Read more about the exhibition here.

Image: Bowl, Kawai Kanjiro. © National Museums Scotland

Creative Writing Workshop & Book Club

With Waltham Forest Twinning Association

WORKSHOPS

Saturday 16 March 2024

Home / What's on/ Creative Writing Workshop & Book Club

An event organised by Waltham Forest Twinning Association, in residency at William Morris Gallery

Waltham Forest Twinning Association is holding monthly Creative Writing & Book Club workshops at the Gallery in 2024.

Participants are asked to bring their life experiences from the British, African Caribbean diaspora and Northeast London. These experiences will be shared through spoken and written word, leading to performance and publication opportunities. Creative writing will be followed by a book club ‘with a difference’ where you can discuss and share your favourite books. For all ages.

Facilitator: Jane Ulysses Grell – storyteller, author

Times: 12-2.30pm Creative Writing Workshop, 3-4pm Book Club ‘with a difference’

Where: Acanthus Room, William Morris Gallery

Travel: You are encouraged to use public transport, such as bus 123 or the 34, 97, 215, 275, 357 or SL1 to Bell Corner. Walthamstow Central and Blackhorse Road (Victoria Line) are the nearest tube stations.

Film Screening & Discussion

Telling our Story & The iD Project

FILM

Saturday 9 March 2024

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A film screening event organised by Waltham Forest Twinning Association, in residency at William Morris Gallery

Visit William Morris Gallery for the screening of three films in the Gallery’s Acanthus room on the top floor of the building. The screenings will be followed by a discussion, allowing you the opportunity to share your thoughts and experiences of the subjects raised in the films.

Two short films:

12-30-12.40pm – ‘Telling Our Hurricane Irma Story’ (2019) – Barbuda,10 minutes. The Be Foundation

Trustees from Barbudan based International NGO The Be Foundation, share their Category 5 Hurricane Irma stories in a frank and honest short film, also exposing why they are so passionate about the future of their tiny island in the Caribbean called Barbuda.

12.50-1pm – ‘Telling our Hurricane Maria Story ‘ (2018) – Dominica, 8 minutes. The Waltham Forest Twinning Association

Members and friends of the WF Twinning Association share their stories in a moving short film which captures some of their experiences when they were in Dominica as Category 5 Hurricane Maria struck.

Followed by:

1.15-2.30pm – ‘The iD Project – My Dominica Story’ (2019) – by Richard Etienne. 1 hour. Everyone has a Story to tell

“On the week that marks 15 years since my paps’ passing, I want to gift you the film that was inspired by the great man. I give to you: The iD Project – My Dominica Story”. The multiple award-winning documentary.

Rest in eternal peace – Richard Etienne Snr. 1953-2004

About the Film:
Travel to the beautiful island of Dominica as one British man documents his journey of discovery and identity. Through a captivating narrative, he explores the birthplace of his late father and delves into the rich cultural heritage of Dominica.

About the Director:
Richard Etienne is a British filmmaker and videographer best known for his work as the official videographer to UK Prime Minister Theresa May (2016-19). His debut film ‘The iD Project’ won the Film Reel Award at the 2019 Caribe Film Festival and Best Documentary at the 2019 British Urban Film Festival.

A group of carved wooden kokeshi dolls from Japan

Family Day

Pop the corks!

WORKSHOPS

Saturday 23 March 2024

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Celebrating the opening of ‘Art Without Heroes: Mingei’ and William Morris’s 190th birthday.

Marking the opening of the Gallery’s new exhibition, Art Without Heroes: Mingei with a toast to William Morris for his 190th Birthday (24 March). Come along to a crafting session and create your own Kokeshi doll using a champagne cork. These workshops are inspired by the Kokeshi dolls that feature in the exhibition: hand-carved wooden dolls that form part of Japan’s rich folk-craft tradition.

Visitors can also enjoy the new family trail to accompany the exhibition. The activity is suitable for children aged 5+ years.

All materials will be provided.

Activities will take place in the Learning Studio on the top floor of the Gallery.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

A big thank you to Hometipple who have provided the corks that we will be transforming into Kokeshi Dolls. To continue the celebrations Hometipple is offering 10% off wine and spirits bottles to take home, when you present your Kokeshi Doll at the shop (please note, this offer can only be used for one purchase per doll). Offer ends 30 April 2024.

Image: Kokeshi by Fujita Mitsuhara, courtesy of Sway Gallery London

Toddler with parent in an art workshop at William Morris Gallery

Mini Morris

Happy Birthday William Morris!

WORKSHOPS

Thursday 21 March 2024

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Mini Morris. Toddler-friendly crafting for 2-5 year olds.

Creative Kids is now Mini Morris!

On 21 March we’re celebrating William Morris’s 190^th birthday with the launch of our newly named ‘Mini Morris’ craft workshops for 2 to 5 year olds. We’ll be getting inspired by the patterns and designs in the Gallery’s collection, making our own decorative plates and having a tea party!

Mini Morris sessions are now DROP IN ONLY at both 10am and 1pm.

Morning: 10am to 11.30am

Afternoon: 1pm to 2.30pm

As this can be a messy session, please wear or bring old clothes. Aprons are available. All sessions include a tour of the Gallery, the craft activity, singing and snack time.

Drop in with limited capacity. Please arrive on time and sign up at the front desk.

Please note: One adult per 2 children.

FREE. Donations are always welcome and help to support our Learning programme.

Family Day

Tell it to the trees

WORKSHOPS

Wednesday 14 February 2024

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Celebrate the trees of Lloyd Park this Valentine’s Day with a secret message of appreciation. A special Family Day for the half term holidays. Part of our Radical Landscapes programme of events and actitvities.

William Morris was inspired by the nature surrounding his former family home. Follow a tree trail in Lloyd Park and then join us in the Gallery to make a Victorian puzzle purse for sending a Valentine message to your favourite tree.

Puzzle purses were used in Victorian times as love tokens: a piece of paper folded several times over to conceal and then reveal a message from one person to another. These puzzle purses were most often used on Valentine’s Day to send hidden notes. On each folded section the sender could write a line that the receiver could then read by opening the puzzle purse, fold by fold.

The activity is suitable for children aged 5+ years.

All materials will be provided.

Activities will take place on the first-floor landing in the Gallery.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

If you’re coming along to the Gallery on the 14 February, you can also pick up a tree as part of Waltham Forest Council’s annual Great Tree Giveaway. From 12pm to 3.30pm in Lloyd Park.

Blue cyanotype image of two swans, with water and trees in background

Film Night: Radical Landscapes

SPECIAL EVENTS

Thursday 8 February 2024

Home / What's on/ Film Night: Radical Landscapes

An evening showcase of four short films exploring the natural world as a space for artistic inspiration.

Join us for the resurgence of Film Night at William Morris Gallery, showcasing four films by independent filmmakers who each explore the themes of the natural world as a space for artistic inspiration, spiritual connection, and political and cultural explorations.

Great Sale Wood (2024) – Michaela Davis

A short, animated film crafted through the sustainable process of cyanotype, featuring over 2,800 hand-printed frames. Shot around Highams Park Lake, the film explores themes of ecology and climate crisis. A study of interconnected beauty in nature, the film contains a score featuring digitally manipulated audio recordings of the lake.

2:02 mins

The Land we Seek the Land we Dream (2022) – Fourthland

Fourthland’s film is a deep remembrance of, ‘the first story´, performed through various acts in the landscape and a conversation between a group of cross-cultural and intergenerational hands. This piece is an invitation to feel ourselves as part of nature. The main elements of the piece are filmed on and around Leyton Marshes.

17 mins (including meditative piece)

OCAK (2020) – Zeynep Kaserci

OCAK offers an intimate portrait of a family harvesting hazelnuts, where questions of labour, gender, family, and love come to the fore. With its observational cinematography and unhurried editing style, it offers glimpses into the daily life in rural north-eastern Turkey and explores peoples’ connection to land and their hazelnut gardens, which have been inherited for generations. In Turkish with English subtitles.

28:20 mins

Effigy for a Black Soldier / Protector of the Children (2022) – Maya Campbell

Effigy for a Black Soldier uses a reworking of the folk song Wayfaring Stranger as a storytelling device to explore memories of the artist’s estranged father, who served in the British Army and had a strong Christian faith. This meditates on the complexities that come with being a black man in service of the British Army, suggesting themes of migration, longing for home and the lingering phantom of the British Empire on the diaspora. The unnamed location suggests borders, emphasised by the dynamic presence of the sea and watery interlude that follows.

Protector of the Children alludes to the Nepali folklore figure of the Lahkey, who is said to be a man-eating demon who protects children and townspeople, dwelling deep in the forests of Nepal. The work draws from the artist’s early encounter with the Lahkey mask, when placed into her grandmother’s care at the age of four, and is an intimate video-performance filmed during the artist’s residency at Space A in Kathmandu, Nepal, exploring walking as a methodology to build connection with ancestral land.

10:32 mins

Image: Still from ‘Great Sale Wood’ Michaela Davis, 2024

Woman stands outside next to a shed in an alotment space.

Waltham Forest: A Radical Landscape

Talk and private view

TALKS AND DISCUSSIONS

Wednesday 31 January 2024

Home / What's on/ Waltham Forest: A Radical Landscape

A panel discussion with artists Abel Holsborough, Zaiba Jabbar and Graeme Miller, followed by a private view of the exhibition

Join us for a special event bringing together our Radical Landscapes commissioned artists: Abel Holsborough, Zaiba Jabbar and Graeme Miller. The event will include a panel discussion followed by a private view of the Radical Landscapes exhibition. The artists will be exploring how their memories and experiences of Waltham Forest and home have influenced the social sculptures that they have created across the borough.

6pm – doors open
6.30pm – panel discussion followed by Q&A
8.30pm – private view of Radical Landscapes

About the artists:

Abel Holsborough

Abel is an artist who uses photography, writing and performance to explore the un-monumental and question what constitutes ‘useful’ art. Their interest in obscure histories and ‘not-quite’ archives also feeds into their work at Brixton Windmill where they are the lead miller of the last working windmill in London. Their collaborative works with organisations such as Artsadmin (Artist in Residence 2023/24), Grizedale Arts and Create London often link to ideas of home, place-making and community.

Commission: Small Things Are Possible

Zaiba Jabbar

Zaiba is an award-winning director, moving image artist, commissioner, independent curator and Founder of HERVISIONS. She’s interested in the democratisation and accessibility by how we experience art outside the white cube. Her curatorial project HERVISIONS is an investigation into how people in the margins are using technology to create art outside of traditional formats, making space for themselves through the experience of expanded moving image. She is a leader in augmented reality and digital art exhibitions online and offline working with partners and institutes that include Tate Modern, LUX, i-D, Google Arts and Culture, IAMSOUND, The London College of Fashion, Loom Festival, Spectacles, arebyte, Furtherfield and The Photographers Gallery. Zaiba was curator in residence at LUX in (2018) and a board member of Abandon Normal Devices.

Commission by HERVISIONS: Wild Wired! Rewilding Encounters of Langthorne Park

Graeme Miller

Graeme Miller is an artist, composer and performance-maker working internationally across a wide range of media from radio to gallery installation and is known for his sited, performative social works.

His practice emerged from UK performance of the 1980s as the co-founder of the influential theatre company Impact Theatre Co-operative. While continuing to make his own stage works that include A Girl Skipping (1990), he evolved a wide-ranging practice as an artist. He makes work that often responds to ideas about place and time, creating situational pieces that shift the attention in his audience. He also composes music and designs sound for theatre, dance, TV and film and is Associate Artist Tutor on the MA Performance Making Course at Goldsmiths University, London.

Graeme lived for a decade in artists housing in Leyton between 1984 and 1994. His family home ended up in the epicentre of the protests to stop the M11 Motorway and was one of the final houses to be demolished for its construction. His radio work LINKED has broadcast in the area since 2003.

Commission: LINKED

Please ‘pay what you can’ for your ticket. Our suggested donation is £7.50.

Image: Abel Holsborough

Still from Derek Jarman's The Garden. Sand, plants and trees can be seen.

Creative Kids

How does your garden grow?

WORKSHOPS

Thursday 18 January 2024

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Our Creative Kids sessions are monthly craft activity workshops for children aged 2 to 5 and their carers.

Taking inspiration from The Garden by Derek Jarman (1990) which features in our Radical Landscapes exhibition, we will be creating our own sun print gardens using cyanotype paper and decorating the frames with natural forms.

As this can be a messy session, please wear or bring old clothes. Aprons are available. The session is best suited for children 2 to 5 years old.

All sessions include a tour of the Gallery, the craft activity, singing and snack time.

These are FREE sessions but donations in support of our public programme are always welcomed and can also be made via the Eventbrite booking page if you are attending either session.

Booking information:

(BOOKING OPENS ON 4 JANUARY 2024)

Morning Session: 10am – 11.30am – Advance booking on Eventbrite. Please book tickets for all attendees.

Afternoon Session: 1pm – 2.30pm – Drop in with limited capacity. Please arrive on time and sign up at the front desk.

Image: Derek Jarman, The Garden, Courtesy & © Basilisk Communications

Family Day

Wild Wired!

WORKSHOPS

Saturday 27 January 2024

Home / What's on/ Family Day

An exciting family-friendly workshop inspired by the recent Radical Landscapes commission from HERVISIONS. We’re also celebrating Tamil Heritage Month, with more activities to enjoy around the Gallery.

Drawing inspiration from the local plants and wildlife of Lloyd Park, at this Family Day we’ll be imagining the land of the park as a living body and wondering about the superpowers that the park’s organisms could harness.

Join Zaiba Jabbar of HERVISIONS to make a collaged creature magnet using natural materials and flora and fauna images. Take it home and bring the outside world in.

The activity is suitable for children aged 5+ years. All materials will be provided.

These activities will take place in the Learning Centre on the top floor of the Gallery.

We’re also excited to be celebrating Tamil Awareness Month on Saturday 27 at the Gallery, which means even more things to do for the family. On the first floor landing you’ll find a diorama model of a Pongal ceremony made by students from the local Tamil school. Pongal — meaning ‘to overflow’ — refers to a ritual in which sweet rice is made in an earthen pot, and brought to boil over as offering to the Gods. The Tamil Temple will lead a Pongal ceremony in the Bedford Road car park, next to the Gallery at 11am.

There will also be a colouring activity with pictures depicting the main elements of a typical Pongal ceremony.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Image: HERVISIONS

In Conversation with Veronica Ryan

TALKS AND DISCUSSIONS

Thursday 18 January 2024

Home / What's on/ In Conversation with Veronica Ryan

Join the 2022 Turner Prize Winning artist Veronica Ryan at the Gallery for a special In Conversation event as part of Radical Landscapes.

We are proud to be welcoming Veronica Ryan in a discussion about her extraordinary career and the themes and motivations around her work. Ryan won last year’s Turner Prize for her solo exhibition Along a Spectrum at Spike Island, works from which are included in our current exhibition Radical Landscapes, and for her public sculptures celebrating the Windrush Generation in Hackney. Her sculptures and installations examine environmental concerns, personal narratives and memories, as well as the wider psychological implications of history, trauma and recovery. A former resident of Leyton, Ryan last showed work at the William Morris Gallery in a group show ‘E11 Works on Paper’ in the 1980s and we are very proud to see her return.

The artist will be joined in conversation with Hadrian Garrard, Director of the William Morris Gallery, co-curator of Radical Landscapes. Garrard worked previously with Ryan, leading the Hackney Windrush Commissions as Director of Create London. The event will be followed by an audience Q&A.

6.30pm – Doors open
7pm – Talk and Q&A
8pm – Radical Landscapes curator’s tour

Please ‘pay what you can’ for your ticket. Our suggested donation is £7.50.

Image: Veronica Ryan. Photographed by Erdem Moralioglu for Harper’s Bazaar

William Morris Gallery & The Hive present: Nightwalk

With Misery

OFF SITE

Saturday 17 February 2024

Home / What's on/ William Morris Gallery & The Hive present: Nightwalk

Join us to celebrate the successes and mark the closing of Radical Landscapes. Nightwalk is a collaboration with The Hive and mental health collective Misery.

Inspired by social movements such as Right to Roam, Reclaim the Night and the mass trespass of Kinder Scout, William Morris Gallery and The Hive present Nightwalk, an evening packed full of outdoor and creative activities.

The event begins at Chingford Station, where participants join our invited walking group guides to ramble through Epping Forest to reach The Hive Climate and Environment Education Centre – in the middle of the forest. We’ll be joined by Epping Forest Heritage Trust guides as well as the GEM Family Hike group for this journey.

At The Hive, a range of activities will be on offer both indoors and outdoors. The Hive will be offering fire pit building, bushcraft and other nocturnal animal inspired activities. Sober club night and mental health collective, Misery, will be taking over The Lodge and the historic Suntrap building for music performances and creative workshops, all inspired by the local landscape and history of Epping Forest.

Enjoy food and drink from The Gleaners Community Cafe throughout the night. Normally based at the Hornbeam Centre, The Gleaners is a community cafe that uses surplus produce — quality ingredients that would otherwise go to waste — to make tasty, plant-based meals.

Timings:

4pm – 5pm Walk from Chingford Station to The Hive, Epping Forest

5pm – 8pm Music, performances, and activities for all (5pm – 6pm family friendly)

6pm – 7pm Option for younger audiences to walk back to Chingford station

8pm – 9pm Walk back from The Hive, Epping Forest, to Chingford Station

About Misery

Misery is a playful mental health collective and sober rave led by and for queer, trans, intersex, people of colour with lived experience of madness, addiction, disability, trauma, and neurodivergence. we co-create accessible sober spaces, services, practices and resources to cultivate communities of care that can support and sustain the collective healing and resilience of queer, trans, intersex Black, indigenous and people of colour. misery is a reminder that you’re not too sensitive, it’s mad out here.

Since early 2022, Misery has run monthly, in-person, plant magic gatherings called ‘misery medicine’ which have seen hundreds of QTIBPOC gather in green spaces across London. Guided by community herbalists, we learn about the medicinal properties of the plants that grow freely around us, communally forage and make tea and tinctures, and engage in healing art practices held by the nature around us.

@miseryparty

About The Hive

The Hive (previously Suntrap) has been offering environmental education for over 50 years at a beautiful, inspiring location in Epping Forest. The Hive is dedicated to fostering a deep understanding of the environment and its intricate connections with the climate. Through immersive experiences, hands-on activities, and expert guidance, The Hive seeks to empower individuals of all ages to become informed stewards of the Earth. Their aim is to inspire curiosity, instill awareness, and encourage sustainable actions that positively impact the planet through interactions with the natural world in the beautiful environment of Epping Forest.

@hiveintheforest

Our walking guides and groups

The Epping Forest Heritage Trust is a charity and a membership organisation with a big mission to inspire people about Epping Forest, and to conserve and protect its irreplaceable biodiversity, culture and heritage now and for generations to come. It operates across the whole of Epping Forest, covering 6,000 acres stretching from Manor Park in East London to Epping in Essex.

www.efht.org.uk

The GEM Family Hike is a monthly walking group, created as a way of connecting Global Ethnic Majority families and enjoying nature together. The group meets on the first Sunday of the month to explore Walthamstow Marshes and Wetland.

@gemfamilyhike

Image: by Neven Kremarek

Winter Late

at William Morris Gallery

SPECIAL EVENTS

Thursday 30 November 2023

Home / What's on/ Winter Late

Join us for a special evening of festive crafts, exhibition tours, music, late night shopping, food and drink.

On Thursday 30 November we’re keeping the Gallery open after hours for a Winter Late event to celebrate the festive season.

There’s something for visitors of all ages to enjoy, including:

Crafts – Create your own Victorian Yuletide pomander. This drop-in activity will be available on the first-floor landing, starting at 5pm and running until 8pm. Suitable for children (aged 5+)
Curator-led tours – Join tours of the Radical Landscapes exhibition at 7pm, 7.30pm, and 8pm. Simply sign up at the front desk to participate.
Music – Enjoy performances by the Rose and Crown Singers.
Late night shopping – The William Morris Gallery Shop is offering a 10% discount on selected items.
Deeney’s Cafe at William Morris Gallery – Sip on mulled wine and a variety of seasonal treats.

Admission is FREE.

Image: © William Morris Gallery

Highlights

Family Day

Once was Walthamstow

WORKSHOPS

Saturday 25 November 2023

Home / What's on/ Family Day

Sculpting and 3D Scanning Workshop. Part of the Radical Landscapes Events and Activities Programme.

Make a modelling clay monument and learn about 3D scanning by adding to a Walthamstow of 200 years ago on a physical and virtual map!

Reimagine the landscape of rural Walthamstow from 200 years ago. Using your experience of the urban landscape of today and inspiration from the Radical Landscapes exhibition, make a modelling clay sculpture to add to Coe’s 1822 map and create a collaborative artwork. Digital art collective Compiler will be 3-D scanning the sculptures to build a digital Walthamstow using the foundations of the 200-year-old map.

What is the Coe Map?

The Coe Map of 1822 (from the Waltham Forest Archive collection at Vestry House Museum) was produced by John Coe and depicts Walthamstow as it was in 1822, before urban expansion took hold and the landscape was changed forever.

The activity is suitable for children aged 5+ years.

All materials will be provided.

Activities will take place on the first-floor landing in the Gallery.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Image: Compiler

Queer Stone Circle

With Simon Olmetti

OFF SITE

Saturday 3 February 2024

Home / What's on/ Queer Stone Circle

A workshop with Simon Olmetti. Part of the Radical Landscapes events and activities programme.

A workshop and collective ritual to create a temporary stone circle of painted and reclaimed small rocks. Join the event at Lea Bridge Library where participants are invited to queer rocks through painting and patterning whilst sharing experiences of the land. The event will then proceed to Walthamstow Marshes, culminating in an Imbolc-inspired ritual. This is originally a Celtic/Pagan celebration to mark mid-winter, and will involve planting new ‘seeds’ for spring and spiritually reclaiming the land as queer and as our own.

Welcoming the LBGTQIA+ community, friends, and allies to this Radical Landscapes event.

About the artist

Simon is an Italian artist living in London, and a PhD candidate in Fine Arts at the University for the Creative Arts, Farnham. His practice and research focus on queering the land through spirituality, utilising walking, sculptural forms, video, photography, creative writing and performative rituals. Simon has participated in several exhibitions, including Visions in the Nunnery, Bow Arts; Queer/in/g/Nature at the Ledward Centre, Brighton; and Queer Land(s), his solo show at the James Hockey Gallery, UCA. He has run many art and spiritual workshops. He’s currently a member of Queer Religious Past, an international academic group in collaboration with Paris8 University.

Exploring Culture and Identity Through Ludo

for Black History Month

WORKSHOPS

Saturday 28 October 2023

Home / What's on/ Exploring Culture and Identity Through Ludo

A workshop organised by Kimartee and supported by William Morris Gallery.

A free community workshop for Black History Month.

The theme for Black History Month this year is ‘Saluting our Sisters’ and this workshop highlights the crucial role that Black women have played in shaping history, inspiring change, and building communities.

Using your imagination and creativity, you will design unique and personalised ludo boards that serve as a continuation of this cultural legacy. This allows you to not only produce beautiful works of art but also enjoy playing the game with friends and family at home.

Workshops are open to all adults and children aged 12 and over (no experience necessary).

Serene Sketching Activity Pack

Saturday 21 October 2023 - Sunday 18 February 2024

Home / What's on/ Serene Sketching Activity Pack

Serene sketching is a drawing pack to help visitors slow down and take a closer look at the nature around them.

Based on Ruskin’s art theory on “truth to nature”, this drawing pack and its prompts aim to help visitors slow down and take a closer look at the nature around them, and the beauty of Lloyd Park. It includes a drawing pad, coloured pencils, a nature-themed viewfinder, a description and a list of drawing prompts for inspiration. There will be 20 packs available at the front desk with a visitor sign-out sheet.

Mindful Mapping

With Kelly Frank

WORKSHOPS

Monday 15 January 2024

Home / What's on/ Mindful Mapping

A guided painting session inspired by the work of JMW Turner and Hurvin Anderson. Part of the Radical Landscapes events and activities programme.

Inspired by artists JMW Turner and Hurvin Anderson from the Radical Landscapes exhibition, this guided painting session will encourage artists to consider their emotional response to the landscape. Using watercolour and masking techniques you will create an experimental map, exploring mindful painting practises, cartographical tools, and social mapping.

This workshop is suitable for beginners. Participants with all levels of experience are welcome.

Kelly Frank is a contemporary painter from East London. Her works explore themes of identity, memory, and relationships. Kelly has taught at various art institutions and utilises innovative teaching approaches to encourage mindfulness through art.

Welcoming participants aged 60 and over.

Wild Wired! Rewilding Encounters of Langthorne Park – Showcase event

OFF SITE

Saturday 21 October 2023

Home / What's on/ Wild Wired! Rewilding Encounters of Langthorne Park – Showcase event

Meet the artists, celebrate and play Wild Wired! Rewilding Encounters of Langthorne Park.

Come to Leytonstone Toy Library for a family-friendly showcase event to meet the artists, celebrate and play Wild Wired! Rewilding Encounters of Langthorne Park, a community-driven artistic commission and mobile-friendly game in response to the Radical Landscapes exhibition at the William Morris Gallery.

In a series of artist-led workshops in collaboration with Leytonstone Toy Library and the Youth Club at Worth Unlimited this summer, HERVISIONS invited local residents to imagine the future of Langthorne Park set in a parallel universe, and collaboratively create a narrative, landscapes and characters for a site-specific game. During the workshops, we collaged words and images of local wildlife into stories and visual narratives with the help of image-generating AI systems such as Midjourney and ChatGPT while deliberating on their unperfectness and speculating on how the park could look in hundreds of years. Drawing inspiration from local plants and their medicinal properties and imagining the land of the park as a living body inspired by Taoism, we began to wonder what superpowers its organs could harness.

We are thrilled to invite you to see how the workshop outcomes have transformed into an interactive mobile-friendly game. To play in the park, scan one of the QR codes on banners located around Langthorne Park E11 using your mobile phone and look for passwords nearby to access five game environments.

Leytonstone Toy Library, Birch Grove, London E11 4YG. Light refreshments will be provided.

Wild Wired! Rewilding Encounters of Langthorne Park is co-curated and produced by Zaiba Jabbar and Tanya Boyarkina with Christine Lai. Read more about the commission here.

Forest Bathing at William Morris Gallery

Supporters and partners

Family Day

Wonderful Weaving

WORKSHOPS

Saturday 21 October 2023

Home / What's on/ Family Day

Weave your own plant pot with artist Lucy Rainbow.

Part of the Radical Landscapes Events and Activities Programme.

Taking inspiration from the themes of the Radical Landscapes exhibition, in this activity we’ll be engaging with nature and the rural traditions of our ancestors. The materials to make baskets were readily available in the local wetlands, which meant that basket weaving was a widely practised craft in Waltham Forest. Guided by artist Lucy Rainbow, you’ll learn how to make a simple woven pot using natural fibres.

The activity is suitable for children aged 5+ years. A simpler weaving activity will be available for younger visitors.

All materials will be provided.

Activities will take place on the first-floor landing in the Gallery.

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Image: Lucy Rainbow

Family Day

Beasts and Birds, Flowers and Foliage

WORKSHOPS

Saturday 23 September 2023

Home / What's on/ Family Day

Join us for Family Day fun! Tile decorating activity led by artist Lucy Rainbow.

William De Morgan was Morris and Co’s principal ceramic designer and maker. Most of his tiles feature foliage and flower designs, whilst some of his best loved and greatest designs feature animals. De Morgan took medieval, Persian, and Japanese influences and blended them in into his own unique style.

In this activity you will be guided in how to use ceramic paint and pens to decorate a 15cm x 15cm ceramic tile, taking inspiration from the designs of William De Morgan.

All materials will be provided.

Activities take place in our Learning Studio on the top floor of the Gallery accessed by stairs and lift.

Activities are suitable for children aged 5+

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Image: Animal Tile, William de Morgan, c.1882-88

Creative Kids

Deck the halls!

WORKSHOPS

Thursday 21 December 2023

Home / What's on/ Creative Kids

Our Creative Kids sessions are monthly craft activity workshops for children aged 2 to 5 and their carers.

Taking inspiration from all things Morris, we will be making our own festive wreaths to spread cheer and good will!

As this can be a messy session, please wear or bring old clothes. Aprons are available. The session is best suited for children 2 to 5 years old.

All sessions include a tour of the Gallery, the craft activity, singing and snack time.

These are FREE sessions but donations in support of our public programme are always welcomed and can also be made via the Eventbrite booking page if you are attending either session.

Booking information:

Morning Session: 10am – 11.30am – Advance booking on Eventbrite. Please book tickets for all attendees.

Afternoon Session: 1pm – 2.30pm – Drop in with limited capacity. Please arrive on time and sign up at the front desk.

Image: Birds in a Holly Tree wallpaper (1890s), Edward Voysey

Creative Kids

Stained glass inspirations

WORKSHOPS

Thursday 16 November 2023

Home / What's on/ Creative Kids

Our Creative Kids sessions are monthly craft activity workshops for children aged 2 to 5 and their carers.

Stained glass was a popular feature in Victorian times, when it was often used to personalise people’s homes. At our November Creative Kids sessions we’ll be looking at the beautiful stained-glass creations in our collection before making colourful windows to decorate your home with.

As this can be a messy session, please wear or bring old clothes. Aprons are available. The session is best suited for children 2 to 5 years old.

All sessions include a tour of the Gallery, the craft activity, singing and snack time.

These are FREE sessions but donations in support of our public programme are always welcomed and can also be made via the Eventbrite booking page if you are attending either session.

Booking information:

Morning Session: 10am – 11.30am – Advance booking on Eventbrite. Please book tickets for all attendees.

Afternoon Session: 1pm – 2.30pm – Drop in with limited capacity. Please arrive on time and sign up at the front desk.

Image: Detail from Minstrel with Cymbals (1880s), designed by William Morris

Creative Kids

Make music, be merry!

WORKSHOPS

Thursday 19 October 2023

Home / What's on/ Creative Kids

Our Creative Kids sessions are monthly craft activity workshops for children aged 2 to 5 and their carers.

Music, instruments, and music makers are a recurring theme in the work of Frank Brangwyn. Explore the Brangwyn galleries and be inspired to make your own musical instrument.

As this can be a messy session, please wear or bring old clothes. Aprons are available. The session is best suited for children 2 to 5 years old.

All sessions include a tour of the Gallery, the craft activity, singing and snack time.

These are FREE sessions but donations in support of our public programme are always welcomed and can also be made via the Eventbrite booking page if you are attending either session.

Booking information:

Morning Session: 10am – 11.30am – Advance booking on Eventbrite. Please book tickets for all attendees.

Afternoon Session: 1pm – 2.30pm – Drop in with limited capacity. Please arrive on time and sign up at the front desk.

Image: Group Listening to Musicians, Frank Brangwyn c.1902

Close detail of the Peacock and Dragon design by William Morris

Creative Kids

Telling Stories like William Morris

WORKSHOPS

Thursday 14 September 2023

Home / What's on/ Creative Kids

Our Creative Kids sessions are monthly craft activity workshops for children aged 2 to 5 and their carers.

Discover the stories behind some of William Morris’s best loved patterns at our Creative Kids sessions for September.

William Morris loved to tell stories and the animals in his designs often came from ancient myths, classic children’s tales or the things that happened in his everyday life. At these sessions we’ll be making animal masks inspired by Morris’s patterns, telling stories and singing songs.

As this can be a messy session, please wear or bring old clothes. Aprons are available. The session is best suited for children 2 to 5 years old.

All sessions include a tour of the Gallery, the craft activity, singing and snack time.

These are FREE sessions but donations in support of our public programme are always welcomed and can also be made via the Eventbrite booking page if you are attending either session.

Booking information:

Morning Session: 10am – 11.30am – Advance booking on Eventbrite. Please book tickets for all attendees.

Afternoon Session: 1pm – 2.30pm – Drop in with limited capacity. Please arrive on time and sign up at the front desk.

Family Day

Design and Dance! With Nandita Shankardass

WORKSHOPS

Monday 28 August 2023

Home / What's on/ Family Day

A dance and design workshop inspired by Ashish: Fall in Love and Be More Tender.

The choice of what we wear can offer signals, create visibility and be a celebration of self-expression. In this workshop, Nandita Shankardass, founder of Welcome Movement © draws inspiration from Ashish Gupta’s motivation for his designs and Ashish Shah’s photography in the current exhibition Ashish: Fall in Love and Be More Tender.

You will be guided on a journey of imagining and designing an outfit to express yourself, exploring the textures and movement of fabrics and the way in which they are created. You will then take part in a dance and movement experience to embody your design on the catwalk! This is an activity for any age to enjoy and express through design and dance.

“We can express ourselves and our identity through the way in which we dress, the fabric we favour, the parts of us we decide to cover, those parts we show and the way it settles and falls on our skin. The colours we choose can give a clue or extension of how we feel. Fashion is a form of powerful self-expression, of making a statement without a sound, yet its presence creates a vibration, permitting the power of the movement and colour of the cloth to tell a story and create an energy around us.” Nandita Shankardass

Belle, colourful and creative storyteller, is pictured with an array of rainbow colours in background

Family Day

Rainbow Storytime for Waltham Forest Pride

WORKSHOPS

Saturday 29 July 2023

Home / What's on/ Family Day

Celebrate Waltham Forest Pride on Saturday 29 July with a special Family Day at William Morris Gallery.

Join us for Rainbow Storytime with the colourful and creative Belle, who’ll be telling stories that highlight the beauty of difference and inclusivity. We welcome LBGTQIA+ families, friends, and allies.

Drop in for free storytelling sessions at 2.40pm, 3.10pm, 3.40pm and 4.10pm. While you listen to the stories, we have a Pride flag colouring-in activity to enjoy. Numbers are limited for each of the storytelling sessions so please arrive in plenty of time – sign up sheets for each session will be available at our front desk on the day.

We offer a break-out sensory space for any children requiring some time away from the activities. Whilst you’re at the Gallery, pick up a Family Trail for ‘Ashish: Fall in Love & Be More Tender’ and complete it to win your prize! You can also take part in Waltham Forest Pride celebrations all day, just down the road at Waltham Forest Town Hall.

Read more about Waltham Forest Pride here.

Waltham Forest Pride activity programme: Waltham Forest Pride 2023 Programme

Ashish Gupta at this exhibition with mannequins in the background in Ashish designs

In Conversation with Ashish

With Ashish Gupta and Avani Thakkar

TALKS AND DISCUSSIONS

Wednesday 14 June 2023

Home / What's on/ In Conversation with Ashish

Join us for an ‘In Conversation’ with Ashish and Avani Thakkar followed by an exclusive private view of the exhibition.

Join us for an In Conversation with Ashish and Avani Thakkar. Together they’ll be taking a deep dive into Ashish’s expansive career and how his penchant for juxtaposition and contradictions led him to create such colourfully mischievous collections in response to the social fabric of our world.

The talk will be followed by a private view of the exhibition Ashish: Fall in Love and Be More Tender.

Please ‘pay what you can’ for your ticket. Our suggested donation is £7.50 in person or £5 online.

6pm – Doors open
6.30 – 7.30pm – Talk followed by Q&A
7.30 – 8.30pm – Private view
8.30pm – End

The event will be live captioned. Please note that the live streaming has been cancelled. A recording of the talk will be uploaded to our YouTube channel following the event.

Ashish Gupta is a celebrated voice in international fashion. He has won the prestigious NEWGEN award three times and has been included in major exhibitions and presentations at The Victoria & Albert Museum, London and The Metropolitan Museum, New York. Ashish’s designs have been worn by global icons including Beyonce, Debbie Harry, Hunter Schafer, Rihanna, Charli XCX and Taylor Swift.

Avani Thakkar is a fashion and culture writer with words in Vogue, ELLE, Dazed, i-D, gal-dem, W, Nylon, The Observer, InStyle and other publications.

Creative Kids

William Morris' Garden

WORKSHOPS

Thursday 20 July 2023

Home / What's on/ Creative Kids

Our Creative Kids sessions are monthly craft activity workshops for children aged 2 to 5 and their carers.

At our July sessions we’ll be thinking about William Morris’s love of the outdoors. So we’ll take a tour around the William Morris Garden in a ‘spot the flower activity’ and make paper plate flowers inspired by nature.

As this can be a messy session, please wear or bring old clothes. Aprons are available. The session is best suited for children 2 to 5 years old. Two sessions available, booking is essential.

All sessions include a tour of the gallery, the craft activity, singing and snack time. There are two 1hour and 30min sessions to choose from, at 10am and 1pm. Please register for one session only to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate. If you are unable to attend please cancel your booking so that another child can take your place. In the event of cancellations, a number of walk-in slots will be available on the day.

We have a space for buggy parking and our baby changing facilities have spare nappies, wipes, clothes and a few other items you might need.

There is a sensory area for under 2s or for those who need a calmer space, families are also welcome to use this space if they need to step away from the main session.

Please be aware that children must be accompanied by their adult at all times, and please ensure there is at least one guardian per 3 children attending.

Catwalk image with model wearing Ashish designs

Creative Kids

Fabulous Fashion

WORKSHOPS

Thursday 15 June 2023

Home / What's on/ Creative Kids

Our Creative Kids sessions are monthly craft activity workshops for children aged 2 to 5 and their carers.

In our June sessions we will be inspired by the Gallery’s current exhibition, Ashish: Fall in Love and Be More Tender. Make a cape and transform your everyday clothes!

As this can be a messy session, please wear or bring old clothes. Aprons are available. The session is best suited for children 2 to 5 years old. Two sessions available, booking is essential.

We have a space for buggy parking and our baby changing facilities have spare nappies, wipes, clothes and a few other items you might need.

There is a sensory area for under 2s or for those who need a calmer space, families are also welcome to use this space if they need to step away from the main session.

Please be aware that children must be accompanied by their adult at all times, and please ensure there is at least one guardian per 3 children attending.

Family Day

Elevate the Everyday

WORKSHOPS

Saturday 3 June 2023

Home / What's on/ Family Day

You’re invited to a special Family Day in June, celebrating Ashish:Fall in Love and Be More Tender.

Inspired by Ashish Gupta’s use of recycled vintage fabrics and vintage patches to create collage garments for his SS2020 collection, we’re going to bring old clothing to life with colourful badges and patches. So come along and get creative – for families with children of all ages. Whilst you’re at the Gallery, complete the Ashish Family Trail and claim your prize!

This is a free, drop-in event. No booking necessary. We have a break out sensory space for children needing a break from activities (must be supervised by their grown-up).

Read more about the exhibition here.

Rezia Wahid: dancing in the womb

Book launch

SPECIAL EVENTS

Saturday 20 May 2023

Home / What's on/ Rezia Wahid: dancing in the womb

Celebrate the launch of Rezia Wahid’s new book dancing in the womb

The book foregrounds the making, the processes and the physicality of a woven artform.’Susie Campbell

Come and celebrate the launch of Rezia Wahid’s new book dancing in the womb, a colour hardback with stunning photographs by Paul Tucker and essays by the late Simon Olding, Catherine Harper and Hettie Judah. Rebecca Jacobs will host a conversation with Rezia, Paul Tucker and Sangeeta Banerjee, followed by a book signing and refreshments.

Rezia Wahid MBE is a textile artist and designer based in Walthamstow. dancing in the womb is published by Hesterglock Press.

Maids of Honour embroidery by May Morris

Creative Kids

May Morris’s Extraordinary Embroidery

WORKSHOPS

Thursday 18 May 2023

Home / What's on/ Creative Kids

Our Creative Kids sessions are monthly craft activity workshops for children aged 2 to 5 and their carers.

In May, we’ll be doing a special craft activity inspired by May Morris’s extraordinary embroidery.

All sessions include a tour of the gallery, the craft activity, singing and snack time. Please register for one session only to ensure everyone has the opportunity to participate. If you are unable to attend please cancel your booking so that another child can take your place. In the event of cancellations, a number of walk-in slots will be available on the day.

As this can be a messy session, please wear or bring old clothes. Aprons are available. We have a space for buggy parking and our baby changing facilities have spare nappies, wipes, clothes and a few other items you might need. There is a sensory area for under 2s or for those who need a calmer space, families are also welcome to use this space if they need to step away from the main session.

Please be aware that children must be accompanied by their adult at all times, and please ensure there is at least one guardian per 3 children attending.

Curator-Led Tour

Ashish: Fall in Love and Be More Tender

TOURS

Thursday 27 July 2023

Home / What's on/ Curator-Led Tour

Visit William Morris Gallery for a special curator-led tour of Ashish: Fall in Love and Be More Tender.

Ashish: Fall in Love and Be More Tender is the first major survey exhibition of fashion designer Ashish Gupta. It will showcase over 60 designs, offering an unprecedented overview of Ashish’s subversive and playful practice. The exhibition features a major new commission by the Mumbai-based photographer and film-maker Ashish Shah.

See the exhibition with one of our curators as your guide. A great opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the work and ideas behind Ashish’s creations.

Read more about the exhibition here.

Curator-Led Tour

Ashish: Fall in Love and Be More Tender

TOURS

Thursday 22 June 2023

Home / What's on/ Curator-Led Tour

Visit William Morris Gallery for a special curator-led tour of Ashish: Fall in Love and Be More Tender.

See the exhibition with one of our curators as your guide. A great opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the work and ideas behind Ashish’s creations.

Read more about the exhibition here.

Curator-Led Tour

Ashish: Fall in Love and Be More Tender

TOURS

Thursday 18 May 2023

Home / What's on/ Curator-Led Tour

Visit William Morris Gallery for a special curator-led tour of Ashish: Fall in Love and Be More Tender.

See the exhibition with one of our curators as your guide. A great opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the work and ideas behind Ashish’s creations.

Read more about the exhibition here.

Curator-Led Tour

Ashish: Fall in Love and Be More Tender

TOURS

Thursday 27 April 2023

Home / What's on/ Curator-Led Tour

Visit William Morris Gallery for a special curator-led tour of Ashish: Fall in Love and Be More Tender.

See the exhibition with one of our curators as your guide. A great opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the work and ideas behind Ashish’s creations.

Read more about the exhibition here.