CONTINUING to support young talent in London, British brand Alexander McQueen has announced their pledge to support A Team Arts Education; a community youth arts education initiative located in East London. This organisation focuses on support the aspirations of the capital’s youth as they transition into art and design careers.
“It feels especially important for us to be able to take part in supporting young people from the East End of London, where Lee Alexander McQueen grew up,” begins creative director Sarah Burton. “At this house we all know that talent from everywhere, irrespective of background.
At a time when UK arts education is narrowing and being cut and young people are under pressure, we’re inspired and humbled to able to join with A Team Arts Education in their exceptional grassroots work in providing fashion, textiles and art and design programmes.”
Alexander McQueen x A Team Arts Education at The Brady Centre. Photograph: Liam Leslie
Alexander McQueen x A Team Arts Education at The Brady Centre. Photograph: Liam Leslie
Through the launch of educational out-reach programmes with workshops that were run throughout the pandemic, the relationship between McQueen and A Team Arts Education cemented. Unlike other programmes similar in nature to this one, this one differs as it presents a link to a younger audience in society through its free art-led school holiday and Saturday school schemes.
“Working with Alexander McQueen will provide inspiration, hope and opportunities to an area that has established links to the fashion and textiles industries that are now hidden through layers of history and a changing urban landscape”, comments Sarbjit Natt, Director of A Team Arts Education. “The collaboration will help the arts to flourish in a positive way for young people and the wider community of East London.”
Alexander McQueen x A Team Arts Education at The Brady Centre. Photograph: Liam Leslie
Alexander McQueen x A Team Arts Education at The Brady Centre. Photograph: Liam Leslie
Not only providing financial support to this programme, Alexander McQueen will also offer support through workshops and classes with design, textile and embroidery specialists at the brand to give those attending an insight and introduction to this area.
With many teenagers not able to study creative subjects at school, programmes such as this one give them an opportunity to build portfolios to further their knowledge and help them go onto foundation courses and degrees once they have left school.
by Imogen Clark