Katie Schwab

Option 2: Abstract ‘patchwork’ of bright colours and shapes referencing the history of tile and brick production in Tower Hamlets. Glazed brick, ceramic tile, paint

Katie Schwab proposes a collectively-designed abstract mural created to reflect the diversity and distinctiveness of Tower Hamlets and its history.

Made with ceramic tiles, glazed bricks and painted elements, the final artwork will reference the history of brick and tile production in the borough as well as local architecture. For example, in the 17^th and 18^th centuries, bricks were made from clay dug from pits around Roman Road West; artist Peggy Angus created printed tiles for the Susan Lawrence/ Elizabeth Lansbury School in Tower Hamlets; and Bethnal Green underground station is decorated with ceramic tiles. Attuned to the intersecting local material, social and cultural histories of Roman Road West, the striking artwork will explore questions around collective memory, public and private space, craft and industrial production.

Schwab proposes a series of workshops with residents to create a range of designs to form the final artwork, which will be an abstract ‘patchwork’ of bright colours and shapes. Depending on the outcome of these workshops, the final artwork may cover the whole site or a section.

View artist video here

About Katie Schwab:

Katie Schwab. Photo by Sarah Packer

Katie Schwab is an artist living and working in London. Her work weaves together personal, social, and craft-based histories, often drawing from overlooked traditions of making and working collectively. She has made tapestries, embroideries and furniture, and works with processes including woodblock printing and quilting. Schwab often works collaboratively, involving other people in the design and making of these artworks.