Hackney Studios

As featured on The British Journal of Photography.Hackney, East London, is well known for its vibrant creative community. Jenny Lewis spent four years in and out of studios across the borough photographing a tribe of artists who over time have defined the area. Painters, illustrators, filmmakers, jewellers, ceramicists and fashion designers invite us into their studios and share their private thoughts about the creative process. What began with a chance encounter with fashion designer Isobel Webster grew organically into a 'family tree' of the borough's creative community, with each artist nominating the next person to be photographed. Lewis notes that many of the artists featured in the project have since been forced to leave their studios due to recent steep rent increases, and as such, hopes this book will stand as a timely reminder and celebration of the spirit of creativity in one of London's most dynamic areas.Jenny Lewis moved to Hackney over twenty years ago via a spell at Preston University where she acquired a Fine Art degree and a husband. Since then she has made her living as an editorial photographer but continues to pursue a range of personal work. Much of this centres on her experience of living and working in East London. Her first book, 'One Day Young', is also published by Hoxton Mini Press.