Why East London?
Historically East London has always had a symbiotic relationship with the arts. In the mid 1980’s an extension of London’s financial district led many artists to seek alternative, cheaper accommodation elsewhere, and in the early 1990’s East London became a base for the renowned Young British Artists. The opening of the White Cube gallery in 2000 strengthened the East’s reputation as the cultural hub of London, and today the area remains a focus for artistic endeavours and many galleries still thrive despite rising property prices. The forthcoming 2012 Olympic Games has given huge impetus to the regeneration of East London. Stratford, a once neglected district, will be the location for the Olympic Stadium and the focal point of the games. But huge challenges remain in an area that is still seriously deprived, housing significant immigrant communities from Bangladesh, Somalia, Eastern Europe and many other countries, as well as a traditional white working class that has often found it d
