A new festival will explore the ways in which art can have a positive impact on communities.

On Saturday, November 23, as part of the London Borough of Culture in Waltham Forest, Art Assembly will gather together artists and organisations that are using art to examine challenges facing communities. The featured organisations are all using innovative approaches to bring communities together and encourage positive social change.

London-based Arts Catalyst has invited artist duo A Place Of Their Own (Sam Vardy and Paula McCloskey) to consider climate change and the environment. Lake District-based Grizedale Arts will construct an outdoor classroom and host a series of workshops with partner villages from across the globe. Middlesbrough Institute of Modern Art will present a series of projects showcasing their community engagement projects.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

Two of the organisations will tackle serious issues facing communities across the UK. Known for their work with prisoners, ex-offenders and young people at risk, Synergy Theatre Project will present two performances of their new play To My Younger Self. The play will explore knife crime and feature a Q&A with the cast and crew. St Helens-based Heart of Glass will work with artist The Vacuum Cleaner (James Leadbitter) to bring elements of their Madlove Take Over Festival to Bangs Hair Salon. Artists from the festival will share their work whilst those in most need of care and pampering enjoy free haircuts, styling and mini manicures.

East London and West Essex Guardian Series:

Visitors will also be able to see Pioneers: William Morris and the Bauhaus at William Morris Gallery, an exhibition showcasing objects made at the Bauhaus, side-by-side with objects from the Arts and Crafts movement.

For more information visit wfculture19.co.uk