I have always always been fascinated by Hackney Wick.  The area has a real energy that exists amongst its Victorian industrial buildings. It lay almost derelict for many years, with the exception of a few small local businesses and artists but over the last few years there has been an explosion of activity with people living on the canal, new housing and bars catering for an influx of young people.  

I wanted to try to capture the gritty, urban feel of this place, its industrial heritage and the River Lee, which provided the life blood for this area. 

I have built the image up in many layers of watercolour which I feel accentuates the grimy feel of the area. Its not a traditional subject for watercolour but I love using the paint in this way and love the effect that is created by multiple translucent layers.