MICHAEL NEEDHAM

In 2003 UK artist Michael Needham established the “Neighbourhood Watching’ community program in the Bethnal Green housing estate where he is a resident. The program facilitates collaborations between guest artists and residents of the estate to produce a variety of events and artworks.

During his 2010 residency at Gertrude Contemporary, Michael undertook a similar project with residents of Fitzroy’s Atherton Gardens Housing Estate. He facilitated a number of discussions both at the Estate and with members of the local Brotherhood of St Laurence, in preparation for a final collaborative project presented on the grounds of the Estate in December. In addition, he opened up Gertrude’s Studio 18 workspace as a type of community hall that hosted a number of events for local immigrant groups during his tenancy, from ballroom dancing to knitting workshops.

Michael’s recent projects include Inventory of Aliases - Wouldn't It Be Nice at Somerset House, for Abake (2008); Space/ Bow Older Peoples' Project - 21 Stories, for The Old Ford Housing Association (2007); Growing up in Tower Hamlets, for the East London Business Alliance (2007); Banking on Shadwell for Deutsche Bank (2006); Phone a Friend/Intergenerational Project for Magic Me and Age Concern- Tower Hamlets (2006).