The Loop success story: Hannah Wild
Discover how one local artist used recent events held at The Loop to find a workspace and form a new creative partnership
Tell us a bit about how you came to Hackney Wick and found your current workspace?
I’ve been a resident in the Olympic Park for over a decade and have always loved Hackney Wick’s vibrant originality, creativity and enterprise. I first learned about Hackney Wick Arts Club (HWAC) during a conversation with the CDT’s William Chamberlain at The Loop’s Open House back in September. He introduced me to the HWAC team and I was immediately drawn to the community and atmosphere. When I visited their mixed-space workshop, it was clear that it was exactly the kind of environment I needed to transition from working at home to a dedicated creative space.
And we hear you formed a new partnership via The Loop, too?
I was introduced to Hannah and Heidi of greetings card and wrapping paper company Earlybird Designs after showcasing my work with discarded balloons at the Circular Neighbourhoods Conference at The Loop in October. Following the event, a member of the ReLondon team connected us, knowing they had recently received a ReLondon grant to launch a balloon and party supplies recycling initiative at their Stoke Newington shop. Our principles and visions for sustainability totally align and we’re going to start working together in the new year.
Tell us about your interest in circular economy practices, and lower impact art - where did it begin and what are the areas you are particularly interested in exploring?
My interest stems from the mantra "waste not, want not" which was embedded in daily life while growing up on a farm in Devon. This principal has shaped my creative and conscious design approach, driving me to create with purpose and work with often-overlooked ‘waste’ materials in unexpected ways. Currently, my focus is on making products and accessories from discarded balloons, but I’m also exploring other ideas, such as repurposing my children’s (and their friends’) old swimming caps. Other materials that I have worked with include advertising banners, window vinyl and plastic bread bags. I am particularly passionate about promoting and sharing the art of repurposing, inspiring others to keep materials in circulation and out of landfill.
Some of Hannah Wild’s art
How does a hub like The Loop impact the local community - particularly the cluster of eco-minded businesses and artists in the area?
The Loop is a space for collaboration, innovation and resource sharing. It fosters community and creates opportunities for like-minded individuals and organisations to connect and amplify their efforts. For the local community, it serves as a platform for education and awareness and gives them the opportunity to engage with and access to businesses that prioritise environmental responsibility.
What kind of provision for businesses/artists do you think is lacking here, that could perhaps be explored in future?
I believe there is still a key need for truly affordable workspaces and ones that cater to a range of disciplines – we need lots more spaces like The Loop and HWAC! Another area to explore is shared resources and facilities, perhaps communal workshops with specialist equipment to reduce costs and encourage circular practices. And in such places, we should encourage collaboration, skill sharing and mentoring programs to ensure Hackney Wick’s diverse creativity continues.
Catch Hannah’s workshop The Art of Repurposing at The Lab E20 on Thursday 28th November, 18:30-20:00.
Repurposed balloon products are available via Hannah’s online shop
Follow Hannah’s Instagram