These workshops are part of the Material Histories project, which explores the social and cultural histories of the East End textile industry through art, making, and community collaboration. During the summer sessions we will create DIY percussion instruments from recycled materials to be used and worn in an artist and community-led banner procession on 5 September, from Oxford House to Whitechapel Gallery, as part of Whitechapel Gallery’s Backyard Biennial.

Inspired by the working-class skiffle music movement of 1950s East London, these creative sessions celebrate homemade music, resourcefulness, and community spirit. Skiffle music gave working-class young people an accessible way to make music from whatever they had around them, and these workshops continue that same spirit of creativity, play, and collective expression.

Workshops will take place on the following Thursdays from 10.30am-12.30pm: 30 July, 6 August, 13 August and 20 August. Each week we will focus on a different activity offering plenty of variety and a chance to build skills.