An exciting programme of events celebrating the borough’s collection of the unique ceramics of the Martin brothers is coming for residents to enjoy.
The series of free activities include a virtual reality (VR) exhibition, educational workshops and guided tours, as well as events across Southall and the rest of the borough.
Who were the Martin brothers?
The 3 Martin brothers worked as potters in the late 19th and early 20th centuries in a workshop by the canal in Southall, creating hand-designed works of ceramics in clay which were sold in their London shop by a fourth brother.
Their distinctive works are highly prized by museums and collectors around the world.
Fun activities to get involved with
You can visit the free VR exhibition at the Dominion Centre, Southall, or view it online from 9 November 2023 until February 2024.
Students at Havelock Primary School in Southall will also be creating their own version of Martinware with the help of ceramicist, Victor Pedrosa, this winter.
A free Martinware map of significant locations related to the Martin brothers is already available in borough’s libraries and guided walking tours are coming soon.
Next year, five young creatives in Southall will take part in a paid cultural traineeship, giving them the opportunity to learn new skills and curate their own artistic project.
Councillor Polly Knewstub, cabinet member for thriving communities, said: “We are proud of the borough’s connection to these unique and original artworks.
“These projects will provide exciting new ways for residents to express themselves creatively and engage in artistic activity, as well as to learn about the collection and explore the legacy of the Martin Brothers’ ceramic practice today.”
The collection was originally displayed in the old Southall library and Pitzhanger Manor, in Walpole Park, but, because of thefts in the early part of this century, the collection was placed in storage. A large portion of the collection is now available to view in Southall library. Several stolen items have also been recovered to the collection.
These series of events and activities are organised by Ealing Council in partnership with Artification and Roaming Projects and supported by the Henry Moore Foundation, Arts Council England, and the Art Fund.
