News Story

During November 2019, the Royal Borough of Greenwich spoke with some of the creatives based at Thames-Side Studios - the largest single-site studio provider in the UK.

Here's what they had to say.


Fiona is standing in an art studio, working on clay on a stand in front of her as she smiles, looking away from the camera. She is a white woman with shoulder length brown hair, and is wearing a grey apron.

Fiona Veacock

Fiona Veacock, a ceramicist at the studios, spoke about her excitement for Woolwich Works opening. She said:

'I think if there’s theatre, music and dance there – we'll be there all the time. It really interests me, my husband and my teenagers and hopefully their schools will get involved in projects. It sounds like a remarkable space that’s coming.'

On her website, Fiona says that she's inspired by the local area. She loves 'Thameside locations with a compelling industrial history, a beautiful local lido and of course sharing food with friends and family. My studio is right alongside the river, over looking an industrial landscape.'

Emile Vidal Carr

They also spoke with Emile, a fashion designer and entrepreneur, at Thames-Side Studios.

'I think it’s a really good idea. It’s great they’re regenerating the area. As an artist, as a creative person it’s definitely what I see as a good thing.'

Emile is originally from Sierra Leone and came to London age three. He graduated from London College of Fashion and has worked in the industry for nearly 20 years. During this time he has become one of London's most sought-after designers. You can explore his collection on his website.

Emile stands in a sewing studio room, looking thoughtfully at the camera. He is a tall Black man, wearing a stylish and vibrantly patterned blue jacket, jeans and brown shoes.