UCL's transformation explored by Artist in Residence

The construction and demolition projects taking place as part of UCL's transformation have been brought to life by the Department of Chemistry's Artist in Residence.

UCL is currently undertaking the largest set of construction projects since the university was established. And these projects will help to shape the experience of students and staff for generations to come.

Hilary Powell is Leverhulme artist in residence at the UCL Department of Chemistry. Through collaborations with the Sustainability Team, Leverhulme Trust, East London Printmakers, Grand Challenge for Sustainable Cities, Department of Anthropology, UCL Estates, Institute of Making and a wide range of UCL's building contractors, she has explored demolition and construction, and the materials, process and people that make this possible.

Urban Alchemy explores the material stories and processes of urban change through imaginative salvage and chemical print experiments. Roofing zinc becomes etching plate from which portraits of those removing this zinc from the rooftops of London's ever changing skyline emerge. Slate and bricks become ink and plywood hoardings are transformed through woodcut.

Staff and students are invited to get involved at events below.

Urban Alchemy Book Launch

Join artist Hilary Powell and special guests for the launch of Urban Alchemy, a project uncovering the people, processes and materials of a city and site undergoing constant transformation, demolition and renovation. The launch is accompanied by an exhibition of large scale prints and the first in a series of public Urban Alchemy experiments.

Wednesday 24th June, 5.00-9.00pm
UCL Construction Welfare Building canteen, Gordon Street, WC1A 0AH
Book via Eventbrite

Alternative Stone Lithography masterclass

Come along to this workshop to try your own stone lithographic printmaking using alternatives to traditional limestone.

Thursday 25th June
UCL Institute of Making, Malet Place, WC1E 7JE
Book via Festival of Stuff

Participate in giant woodcut and brick ink making

Saturday 27th June 1-5pm
Urban Alchemy skip and roadroller printing at the Festival of Stuff street extravaganza.
Open to all and free.
Malet Place, WC1E 7JE

Find out more at: www.hilarypowell.com