The pop-up gallery on The Street will be devoted to Getty Images' archival collections of the East End and its residents; the cosmopolitan atmosphere and communities and incredible portraits of locals' resilience during the Blitz in 1940.
Each piece entices the viewer into the picture, allowing them to appreciate the beauty and history of East Londoners going about their daily life. The exceptional photography of subjects in unconventional or candid settings and brilliant use of black and white photography, keep the audience captivated in every aspect of the shot.
Key works on display, which are also available for purchase, include images from the legendary Picture Post magazine; The Pool of London; Whitechapel's Jews and Cockneys' Own Party. An exceptional piece includes a 1912 image of barefoot children waiting in Salmon's Lane for a free meal, which Getty Images' Hulton Archive printed from the original glass plate, despite it being damaged, to give a fascinating illustration of East London exactly 100 years ago.
Myf Ryan, General Manager, Marketing UK said: "Inspiring art and design have formed the backbone of Westfield Stratford City. From the unique pillarless architecture of the mall, to the bespoke concierge uniforms designed by up and coming Shoreditch designer, Julian J Smith, the place of art and fashion are celebrated in equal measure. We are honoured to host an exhibition that celebrates East London's past at a time when we are looking to its future and legacy."
The images were collated from the archival collections in online imagery, print files and contact sheets. Getty Images darkrooms worked from original glass plate negatives through to contemporary film, hand printing and hand retouching each print.
"The EAST exhibition is a selection of some of our most iconic and esteemed images showcasing life in East London over the past 100 years," commented Getty Images Gallery Director, Louise Garczewska. "We are incredibly excited to be able to offer the East London community the chance to see some of these rare and incredible shots, hand selected from our archive of over 80 million images."
Artwork will be available to order throughout the duration of the exhibition to bespoke frames and sizes.
Prices start from £65.00
The EAST exhibition will launch with an exclusive exhibition preview evening on Thursday 9th February 2012 - by invitation only. The exhibition will then open to the public from Friday 10th February until Sunday 18th March 2012.
The EAST theme with extend through Westfield Stratford City on Thursday 9th February; many retailers and restaurants along The Street, Four Dials and Chestnut Plaza will celebrate the homage to East London by offering shoppers exclusive discounts and refreshments in-store. Offers not to miss on the night include:
Hugo Boss - offering an exclusive preview their new spring collection with complimentary champagne
Folli Follie - spend £450 in-store and receive a K-Vintage handbag worth £85
Dwell - complimentary champagne and canapes in-store
The Real Greek - offering 25% off on the night
PizzaLuze - giving away mini pizzas and offering 50% off and complimentary prosecco
The White Company - complimentary champagne served in-store and 15% off discount
Toni & Guy - giving away "Fashion Fiver" vouchers that are a passport to £5 off any service
Ellis Brigham Mountain Sports - 10% off in-store
To find out more about Westfield Stratford City, visit the Official website at http://uk.westfield.com/stratfordcity.
Photo by Ben Pruchnie
