Watch 'Depictions of Hounslow', a new film by Martin Newth, at Watermans Riverside Gallery

Artist Martin Newth was commissioned in 2021 by the Creative People & Places Hounslow Visual Arts Programme to create and curate a new film project with local people, exploring Hounslow’s identity, geography, culture and history.

Together with Martin, the community was invited to explore Hounslow, uncovering stories of the borough and bringing them to life through moving image.

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 historical and contemporary depictions of Hounslow by artists throughout the ages.

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 films they created reflect on cultural diversity and harmony, as well as the rich history, and the urban beauty to be found in Hounslow.

The resulting film ‘Depictions of Hounslow’ brings together the community responses and Martin’s film to create a multi-faceted look at Hounslow through the eyes of the people who live here.

About Martin Newth

Martin Newth is an artist, and Assistant Dean of the School of Arts and Humanities at the Royal College of Art, 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. Visit www.hounslowvisualarts.org.uk for more information