ANNOUNCING SAM IKHUORIA AS ARTIST- IN -RESIDENT FOR NEWHAM HERITAGE MONTH 2025

As part of our Newham Heritage Month project, Inspector of Nuisance, we launched an open call inviting a Newham-based artist to respond to the rich 60-year history of Alice Billing House. 

The building has served many roles over the decades - from firemen's accommodation and a homeless shelter, to Environmental Health Council offices, a film set, and now a thriving artist studio. We received many outstanding applications, and we are delighted to announce Sam Ikhuoria as the selected artist for this project.

Sam is a Newham-based artist; his practice explores abstract visual storytelling through textured forms and organic materials. Influenced by expressionism, Sam’s work draws on personal narratives and collective memory, using art as a conduit for reflection, dialogue and connection. Working across mixed media, his creative approach blends material experimentation with themes of place and nature.

 “This residency will allow me to creatively reflect on the heritage of Alice Billings House over the last 60 years. Drawing on inspiration from Rebecca Horn’s use of body modification and wearable sculptures, I’ll be experimenting with painting tools attached to parts of my body. With this creative process, I can expressively engage with the history of Alice Billing House post-1965. I look forward to delving into Newham Archives to uncover hidden layers of the borough.”

Sam will start his residency mid-July and will be facilitating community workshops. More details to be released shortly.