Launch event Sat 13 Sep 2025, 12 – 2.30pm

Transitions presents a local neighbourhood seen through fresh eyes in a series of short films shot in and around Redbridge by artist Alan Abrahams.

Based in Paris, Alan spent four days walking the streets of Redbridge, capturing the borough’s urban landscape, its architectural gems, hidden alleyways, green spaces, and community life. Despite the rapid changes of recent years, he discovered a place with a rich cultural and environmental heritage.

Filmed in cinematic widescreen and enhanced with cross-processed imagery, the series offers an immersive glimpse beneath the surface of the everyday. Each film is accompanied by a bespoke soundtrack, spoken word, composed to complement the visual journey.

In a unique co-creative approach, Alan invited local public, poets and writers to respond to his films and music. Their spoken word performances were woven into the soundtracks, creating a layered, evocative fusion of sight, sound, and narrative voice.

This project was about extending beyond traditional exhibition making, it allowed local participants to directly engage in the creative process, building confidence in discussing art, exploring new artistic experiences, and sharing personal creative work.

The collaborative process highlighted a strong sense of place, purpose, and care for creative development within the community. Participants’ contributions reinforced the role of art as a tool for connection, empowerment, and lasting social impact.

Transitions is a sensory tapestry that invites audiences to see and feel in new ways, transforming the ordinary into moments of deeper resonance and connection.

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Alan Abrahams (aka Portable) is a celebrated live act and music composer whose practice grew out of the ruins of post-apartheid South Africa. He was part of the generation that brought about the freedom of Nelson Mandela and all that followed for his country.

Through his short film narratives, music videos, and sound compositions, Alan pieces together diverse sounds and images from his childhood memories of Cape Town in the 70s, the techno, house and rave scenes in Johannesburg in the 80s, and experiences from his later adopted homes of London, Lisbon, Berlin, and currently Paris.