Refreshments provided. 

Together with Martin, members of the local community were invited to explore Hounslow, uncovering stories of the borough and bringing them to life through moving image and slow, mindful looking. Following the pandemic, it is predicted that cities will significantly transform, impacted by shifts in where people live and work to how people travel and meet. Alongside local issues, such as the potential expansion of Heathrow (one of Hounslow’s largest employers), these developments mean now is a moment to focus on how the Borough is seen, how it sees itself and how it is depicted. 

This project began with Martin Newth exploring Hounslow to create a film essay. This piece of work titled ‘In Transit’ explores narratives of shifts and changes; migration, culture and modes of travel, as well as art historical and contemporary depictions of Hounslow. Martin then extended an open invitation to the community to watch his film, and respond to it, by making their own short films through a series of workshops. 

The resulting films, by members of the community aged 16 to 60, including pupils from Heathlands School, reflect on cultural diversity and harmony, as well as the rich history, and the urban beauty to be found in Hounslow. 

About Martin Newth 

Martin Newth is an artist and Programme Director of Fine Art at Chelsea College of Arts, University of the Arts London. A resident of Ealing, west London, he has exhibited widely in the UK and abroad. As well as his educational leadership he is a founding member of the pan-European network Parallax and has curated numerous shows and artist’s projects. Martin’s multi-media practice includes photography, video and installation where the process by which the work is made is often integral part to the way the work might engage viewers. www.martinnewth.com 

About Creative People & Places Hounslow 

This project was curated and created by members of the local community in collaboration with the Creative People & Places Hounslow Visual Arts Programme, which presents new and original exhibitions in libraries, cafes and other public spaces across the borough. CPP Hounslow is a consortium led by Watermans. www.hounslowvisualarts.org.uk