This three-dimensional model shows a row of houses in Ellingfort Road in
Hackney. It is made from photographic images, paper and wood. Artists Tom
Hunter and James McKinnon produced the model in 1994.
The artists' home
In 1994 squatters occupied much of Ellingfort Road. Hackney Council
repeatedly threatened to evict them. Many of the squatters were artists
who nick-named their street 'The Ghetto'. The artists wanted to record
this exciting community in their work in a way that countered the
Council's rejection of them as socially unacceptable.
Making a statement
The model comments on the use and regeneration of buildings in the city.
It also explores the conflicts that occur between councils and
communities. By highlighting the threat and explaining the importance of
the artistic community, the residents eventually saved the street from
demolition. The houses are currently being refurbished.
