Local resident Bronagh Byrne explains how the Evergreen Field building site became a canvas for creativity, celebrating Wanstead’s history, people and community spirit through a colourful public art project. Photos by Geoff Wilkinson
Back in the cold months of winter, I looked at the hoardings surrounding the High Street building site and saw an opportunity to transform these ready-made canvases into a community project.
Wanstead is a really special neighbourhood. We need to protect and enhance the wonderful amenity we have. Using the hoardings to improve rather than detract from our local area was what I set out to do, and with the help of local creatives, I think we’ve achieved something really special.
After reaching out to a number of local groups, the concept began to take shape. With the support of the development’s manager Shona McKinnon (from housing trust MTVH) and the creative talents of graphic designer Steve Duwensee, graffiti artist Two Cane and Art Group Wanstead members, the project was developed. It can now be seen from the High Street and Christ Church Green.
The project aims to inspire residents, celebrate local creativity and demonstrate the positive impact that community-led initiatives can have on the places we share. It celebrates past and present local icons and produces an interplay of themes connected with the area while the construction work continues. The cow art recalls when cattle casually walked through Wanstead, which ceased only a few decades ago. Space-themed visuals link with this area’s contributions to astronomy (view the plaques to know more and perhaps read local author Dr John Fisher’s book The Life and Work of James Bradley, former Wanstead resident and Astronomer Royal). And illustrations of children reading and day-dreaming show the importance of play and downtime.
The plaques in the park include a selection of well-known people from Wanstead and the wider area, reminding all who visit our lovely High Street of what can be achieved.
For more information on the progress of the Evergreen Field construction project, visit wnstd.com/efnews
