London Borough of Culture 2019 announces an open call for a major new Artist Residency marking two of 2019’s milestones – the centenary of the Bauhaus movement, one of the most influential art, design and architecture movements of the 20th century, and the first ever The Mayor’s London Borough of Culture in Waltham Forest.

As part of a funded programme of artist projects that invite creatives to respond to themes surrounding Waltham Forest’s history and communities, this landmark residency entitled Form, Function and The Outdoors provides a unique opportunity for an established artist, designer or sculptor to explore how ideas stemming from the Bauhaus movement have influenced culture locally. 

The artist will receive funding to create up to four major outdoor installations as part of the London Borough of Culture 2019 official programme and the opportunity to develop a product to be sold at both venues. 

Sam Hunt, Creative Director of London Borough of Culture 2019, said: “As London’s first Borough of Culture we are creating a number of opportunities that reach beyond the borough, inviting artists from across the world to come to Waltham Forest to make magnificent work inspired by its people, its history and its stories. 

“The global resonance of William Morris is still felt now and is a key influence in deciding on the themes of our year ‘Radical, Makers and Fellowship’. How Morris influenced Bauhaus is a fascinating story and a great opportunity to celebrate that international ambition. Form, Function and The Outdoors is a key part of the year and a unique opportunity for an artist to work across the borough with a diverse group of organisations. It is sure to be a highlight of the year.”

The chosen artist will draw upon the proud history and strong contemporary culture of making and light industry in the area and work across two of the borough’s iconic sites: Walthamstow Wetlands and the William Morris Gallery.

They will be tasked with addressing the challenges and changes brought about by rapid urbanisation and climate change in the 21st century, exploring how the ideas of legendary Waltham Forest artist William Morris and the Bauhaus influence an international culture of making and design that still resonates today.

The project will conclude with a major exhibition Pioneers of Modernism. William Morris and Bauhaus at the William Morris Gallery, which will open in October 2019.

Local communities and visitors to the area will also be invited to share and develop their ideas with the artist through a programme of walks, talks and workshops at both the Wetlands and the William Morris Gallery.

Cllr Paul Douglas, Junior Cabinet Member for Culture, commented: “This is an exceptional opportunity for an artist to explore how Waltham Forest was impacted by this iconic movement, and take that forward to create a truly innovative response to the world now. Form, Function and The Outdoors will offer world class creatives the opportunity to work with our local communities and cultural institutions. We can’t wait to see the results.”

The artist in residence is open to any artist or designer who has the relevant skills worldwide through an online application. The deadline for applications is 11.59pm on 8 December 2018 via the form below. Full information can downloaded here.

The residency is part of a greater programme of work for London Borough of Culture 2019 celebrating the Bauhaus centenary, which will be announced in the coming months.

This news article was first published 3 October 2018