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RAW Labs X Art Residency: Masks of Identity – Stories of Transformation and Resilience
Friday 30th May 2025 – Saturday 31st May 2025 , 4:00pm to 8:00pm
The RAW Labs X Art Residency continues with artist Elena Danescu as she explores deeply personal narratives of change of both her own and those shared by others.
Private View | 30 May 4pm-8pm
Exhibition | 31 May 4pm-8pm
Elena Cristina Danescu is currently in her second year of Fine Art at the University of East London. Her practice spans sculpture, printmaking, painting, and digital media exploring the themes of identity, transformation, memory, and cultural heritage. Elena’s exhibitions include her solo show Andy Warhol Reimagined at UEL (co-curated with George Georgiu), The Refracted Selves at Bermondsey Project Space (co-curated with Monica Mardar), Sonder at Lewisham Arthouse, Unbound and Unbothered, VAC 2023, and Artistry Unveiled. Find out more on Elena’s Instagram page: @edsculptor
Exhibition
Masks of Identity: Stories of Transformation and Resilience
Elena’s exhibition is a community-centered exploration of healing, identity, and personal growth through sculpture and printmaking. During her residency at Bow Arts Trust – Royal Albert Wharf, she invited members of the local community to share their stories of resilience and transformation—either publicly or anonymously. Each story became the inspiration for a hand-crafted clay mask and a print, created in response to their words, emotions, and lived experiences.
The clay masks serve as symbolic portraits of inner strength, while the accompanying prints—produced at the University of East London Print Workshop—incorporate language and imagery drawn from the shared narratives. Together, they form a powerful reflection of how personal trauma can give rise to growth and self-discovery.
Participants received the artworks made from their stories, deepening the connection between the personal and the artistic. The final collection will be exhibited at Royal Albert Wharf, creating a space for shared reflection and dialogue.
This project is about more than art—it’s about listening, healing, and finding strength in vulnerability.
More about the RAW Labs X Art Residency
The RAW Labs X Art Residency places a strong emphasis on creative growth and interdisciplinary dialogue, creating a unique space where art and community intersect. Supported by Notting Hill Genesis and Bow Arts, this initiative aims to foster interaction and encourage active participation in the cultural fabric of Royal Albert Wharf, enhancing both the artistic and communal experience.
Over six months, selected artists will undertake two to three-week residencies in an immersive environment to expand their practice, explore new concepts, exchange diverse perspectives, and experiment with innovative approaches.
