Raw Materials: Plastics

Bow Arts presents Raw Materials: Plastics at the Nunnery Gallery.

Raw Materials explores the forgotten industrial history of plastic in east London around the River Lea. The exhibition reveals the story of east London’s central role in the invention and early development of plastics, showcasing some of the very first plastic objects alongside newly commissioned artwork which tells the story of this material’s remarkable journey. The project is supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, as well as by academic partner University College London.

https://bowarts.org/nunnery/raw-materials-plastics

I enjoyed taking part in researching the history of plastics. It was fascinating to get behind the scenes and visit the archives of MoDiP (Museum of Design in Plastic, Arts University Bournemouth) and the V&A, as well as learning about the combustive beginnings of this material. As a UCL student, I was invited to propose a work of art as a response to the archive visits. My piece, “While It Lasts,” was accepted and I am honoured to be a part of this exhibition.

There will be an extensive events programme in connection to this exhibition, including boat tours along the River Lea, plastic recycling workshops and discussions on the future of plastics. See Bow Arts’ Whats On for more information.