East Finchley: A Jewel in London's Local Art Scene

As Summer turns into Autumn it’s time to reflect on our busy year, not just for EFO Artists, but the many other artistic and cultural treasures of East Finchley and its near neighbours. In an unusual poll in Time Out recently we were voted the happiest community in London and, although we are not quite sure of the methodology, it’s still not surprising given the richness of our local culture.


As well as EFO Artists we have the superb annual Arts Festival with music, opera and art,and then there is the independent Phoenix Cinema, not only for interesting films but drama and opera from other cultural centres such as London and New York.


And then there are two community Festivals, summer and winter, and The Finchley Youth Theatre.  Artists, poets, actors, and writers abound. There are also journalists and animators – even a comedian!  And in nearby Highgate (or East Finchley borders, as they prefer to be called) there is Jacksons Lane and the Gatehouse Theatre.

But there is still more. As well as being happy, we have the EFO Artists annual Art Fair is coming up and the Community Winter Festival too. Enjoy!!

Get to Know: Clara Hancock

We are back feeling all refreshed from the Easter break and eager to get our interviews under way!!! This week we have the lovely Clara Hancock who works on silk.

1.       What was the first piece of art you remember making?

The first piece of art I remember making was a soap stone sculpture of a lady kneeling, I still have it!

2.       If you were an animal, what would you be?

If I was an animal I would be a horse

3.       An indulgence

An indulgence would be to spend a day in the lovely country side

4.       When making art, what is your biggest mind block?

My biggest mental block is the size and display of the piece once I finish it

5.       Favourite place in East Finchley? 

My favorite place in East Finchley is Cherry Tree woods

6.       What inspires you to make more art?

 What inspires me to make more art is to express my feelings from experiences of life. A walk, a visit

to a museum, or an art gallery, listening to music or a poem, looking at a garden. They all give me ideas. 

7.       How did you get involved in the East Finchley Open?

I got involved with East Finchley through my friends and founders, Sheila Jones and Tony Wiggs

8.       What is your fondest memory of London?

My Wedding!!