‘Something special’: Artworks by Hackney teenagers go on display at former royal residence

Teenagers from Immediate Theatre outside Cumberland Lodge. Photograph: courtesy Cumberland Lodge

A group of Hackney teenagers have seen their artworks go on display at Cumberland Lodge, a stunning former royal residence in Windsor.

Twenty young people from Immediate Theatre in Lower Clapton and Together As One (Aik Saath) in Slough spent two days in early summer putting together their creations as part of the Lodge’s first ever Youth Arts Takeover.

The youngsters were encouraged to reflect on what heritage means to them, and to weave stories from their own lives into the historical narrative of the 350-year old building in Windsor Great Park.

Their work, which includes photography, spoken-word poetry, and colourful silk embroidery, was unveiled at the Lodge’s open day on 31 August.

Nicholas, a young person from Immediate Theatre, said: “Cumberland Lodge is a photographer’s dream. With beautiful architecture and scenic surroundings, every part of the estate offers a picture-perfect moment.

“It’s a place where every shot captures something special.”

All of the artworks can be viewed online in the Youth Arts Takeover Gallery, and the silk banners and photographs will remain on display in the Lodge, alongside its existing and historic heritage collection.

Kyarna Morris, schools coordinator at Immediate Theatre, said: “I enjoyed witnessing how the young people were able to delve into their desires, inspired by creative ways of art.

“Cumberland Lodge, despite being unfamiliar, encouraged the participants to use its history to express themselves freely.”

The teenagers joined over 150 guests at the open day where, as well as their art exhibition, they were treated to a talk by expert beekeeper Sergio Pignagnoli, a boutique afternoon tea and a tour of the building. Guests also learned about what the Lodge’s work as an educational charity and social enterprise.

Cumberland Lodge’s programme director, Professor Melissa Butcher, said: “It was brilliant to see all of our open day attendees experiencing the artwork created as part of our Youth Arts Takeover by over 20 young people from Slough and East London.

“It was really exciting to hear people’s reactions. The young people crafted beautiful work connecting their own stories to the history and surroundings of the Lodge.”

Jo Carter, Immediate Theatre’s founder and artistic director, added: “I am really proud of the quality of artistic work and depth of thought stimulated during this short project.

“Visiting Cumberland Lodge and being introduced to its history provoked conversations and has had a clear impact on many of the young people, helping them to voice the disconnect they feel with traditional British heritage.

“I hope that this is the beginning of something great.”

You can find out more about Immediate Theatre at immediate-theatre.com.

To view the artworks online, visit cumberlandlodge.ac.uk/learn/our-programme/youth-arts-takeover.