Blackhorse Lane is a key regeneration area for the Borough of Waltham Forest. The strength of its small and medium sized business base and its youthful population are all instrumental characteristics specific to this area. In combination with physical improvements we also instigated a local business directory, a series of free workshops and training opportunities for those living or working in the borough and created promotional billboards celebrating the area’s hidden industry.
We Made That facilitated a series of free workshops and training opportunities for those living or working in London Borough of Waltham Forest to learn new skills from specialist makers. Hosted at the newly established Blackhorse Workshop, a new public workshop providing access to tools and affordable workspace in Walthamstow, the sessions included hand painting, gold leaf signs, joinery, wood carving, metalwork and lighting training. A range of other training sessions continue at Blackhorse Workshop.
Specialist manufacturers - from briar pipes and brushes to ever-lasting food displays - have all been based in Blackhorse Lane over the years. This tradition of making and producing is beginning to take on a new identity with the recent emergence of creative and artistic endeavours often occupying previously industrial buildings. This plethora of graft and craft has been promoted through a series of commissioned photographs by Thomas Adank and a supporting online business directory.