Spitalfields Market in East London has long been a hub of creativity, drawing visitors from all over the world to experience its eclectic mix of art, fashion, food, and culture. Among the vibrant stalls that line this historic market are some truly exceptional artists who showcase their work here regularly. In this post, we introduce three talented individuals whose art captures the essence of London and beyond: Charlie Edwards, Kelly McCann, and Sara Sherwood.
Each of these artists brings a unique perspective and style to Spitalfields, from intricate architectural illustrations to urban photography and bespoke, commissioned paintings. In these conversation with them, they share what drew them to our market, how London influences their work, and their advice for emerging artists.
Let’s dive into their stories, inspirations, and the creative process behind their incredible art.
Charlie Edwards
How long have you been showing your art at Spitalfields?
Since 2021, so three years.
Why did you choose to showcase your art at Spitalfields
Spitalfields consistently comes out on top for both value and footfall, so deciding to trade at Spitalfields Market has been an easy decision.
What makes Spitalfields such a special place to visit and be as an artist?
It’s a great mix of tourists, Londoner and British visitors. Its geographical location is great as it’s close to Brick Lane and Columbia Road, which makes it a good location. It’s also close to Liverpool Street Station, which helps.
How would you describe your art in three words?
Detailed architectural illustrations.
London as a city is a big part of your art – what makes London such an inspiring city?
I was born in Notting Hill and have never lived more that three miles from the area. My subject, architecture, also gives me an almost unlimited number of subjects.
What advice would you give to an emerging artist?
Try not to worry about making money and treat your work as a hobby or passion. Every market is different, and you’ll learn something new every time. It’s also important to have patience. I’ve made big sales 20 minutes from closing on Sunday.
What is your greatest achievement?
Just having confirmation that what I’m doing is worthwhile. Nothing beats the feeling of a complete stranger looking at my stuff, and then handing over money for something I’ve created from scratch.
Kelly McCann
How long have you been showing your art at Spitalfields?
I’ve been showing at Spitalfields since the summer of 2021, so around three years.
Why did you choose to showcase your art at Spitalfields?
I chose Spitalfields for its dedicated, monthly arts market. It’s great to be there alongside other artists and contribute to the market’s eclectic offering.
What makes Spitalfields such a special place to visit and be as an artist?
Spitalfields has such a diverse range of unique products for people to browse. It’s a great option for shopping for yourself or others whilst supporting small businesses. As an artist, the arts market is a fantastic micro community. We have fun together, support and inspire each other every month – those artists keep me going!
How would you describe your art in three words?
Urban. Whimsical. Cinematic.
London as a city is a big part of your art – what makes London such an inspiring city?
London became my home when I was 18. I’ve lived overseas and in other parts of the UK but I’ve always come back to London. I love the city because whilst it is forever changing, it retains so much of its history which you can feel wherever you go. I’m really into architecture and in terms of genres, ages and styles, London has it covered. From Roman remains to classical baroque and gothic, to post war modernism and cutting-edge innovation of the 21st century.
Aside from its stand-out architecture, it’s the life on the streets and the varied assortment of cultures and communities that blend to make London so appealing.
What advice would you give to an emerging artist?
As a photographic artist, as with all artists, it can sometimes be difficult to motivate yourself if inspiration isn’t coming easily to you. My advice is to keep on creating regardless – as a photographer that means keep getting out there with your camera, even if you don’t have direction all the time – keep going and it will come. If you’re flowing, the inspiration will flow too, in time. Secondly, remember that you can’t please everyone. Don’t be down-hearted when someone doesn’t like what you’ve done – stick to your instincts and keep doing what you love.
What is your greatest achievement?
I would say it’s “Fragile”, my first photo book. I moved to New York City about six weeks before the first Covid lockdown. I was unable to get any work so spent my time roaming the streets and built up a collection of photographs which culminated in a visual story – a portrait of New York City in lockdown. I’d never done a book, so it was challenging to take on all the various aspects – the design of the book, the writing, proofing with the printers back in the UK, and self-publishing. I ran a very small print run and sold them all but who knows, maybe there’ll be a second edition!
Sara Sherwood
How long have you been showing your art at Spitalfields?
I showcased my art intermittently at Spitalfields in the early stages of my career, about 19 years ago. I returned in 2017 and have been there regularly ever since.
Why did you choose to showcase your art at Spitalfields?
Spitalfields has great footfall, and the demographic matches the profile of my clientele. This varies over the years, I adjust and increase my portfolio of art prints and originals accordingly. There is something for everyone. From small mini prints for tourists and business travellers to large contemporary art for corporate and home.
What makes Spitalfields such a special place to visit and be as an artist?
Many of my paintings are created on commission and I can incorporate special details and dates as reminders of special memories. I can capture your memories in paint. Perhaps from different countries or fusing landmarks with seascapes or landscapes depending on your story or my experiences. For example: I am inspired by midnight stars on a velvet blue sky, sinking gold leaf stars or real diamonds into paint. These memories from a Mediterranean evening, twinkling over say a London or New York city skyline. Anything creative to evoke peace, silence, movement, depth, fun or joy.
Spitalfields has a wonderful community of artists and general traders. The artists and general stallholders are welcoming and offer high-quality art and interesting products from all over the world. Many of the artists are local and people can buy, commission or chat with an individual artist which is a wonderful opportunity. It makes the whole shopping experience personal and unique. The Spitalfields community work together to make the experience of visiting special. It then becomes very rewarding to work there.
London as a city is a big part of your art – what makes London such an inspiring city?
London is a microcosm of the world. A mixture of cultures and different skill sets all working alongside each other. It is a place of opportunity, positivity and possibility.
What advice would you give to an emerging artist?
If you want to sell, get feedback. Listen fully to what a wide range of people like. Then create more of that with unique elements. Test the market and look for your type of customer and then go where they are. Start small and build. Be consistent with your pricing. Offer excellent customer care. Communicate well. Build relationships. Be transparent. Be determined. Be grateful. Take business studies or work in some sort of retail or customer focused industry or project management so you can learn to manage your business process. Just flow and know. Believe in miracles.
Learn more about each artist’s work and visit their individual websites:
Charlie Edwards: Vector Architecture
Kelly McCann: Kelly McCann Photography
Sara Sherwood: Sara Sherwood Art
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