I'm Sahra Hersi, an artist and designer with a background in architecture. My creative journey really took off at Newham College, where I studied an art and design foundation back in 2007. That course really opened things up for me and helped me realise I could be an architect, a designer and an artist. The course closed not long after I graduated, which makes me even more grateful I had the opportunity. But it's sad that others have missed out.
Newham holds a special place for me, it's where my creative roots are. I had a studio space at Old Manor Park Library for many years and worked with a community risograph printing press there, called Rabbits Road Press, which was my introduction to risograph printing. I've been working with the risograph ever since. That experience deeply shaped my practice.
My work is deeply rooted in care and community. I aim to create public spaces that evoke a sense of home by bringing a feeling of domesticity to the public realm. Whether it's working with materials like stone to symbolise that communities are set in stone, or using ceramics and paper to create tangible outcomes, I strive to leave a lasting impact.
I'm inspired by figures like William Morris and Peggy Angus – not just their work but the values behind it. The bold visuals and political clarity of See Red Women’s Workshop have been a big influence for me – feminist, direct and made with purpose. They remind me that design can be a tool for change.
Much of my process is about listening. I spend time with people, observe what’s around me and let those encounters guide the direction of the work. I believe that care is a practice, something you do again and again with attention and intention. That is what guides my approach and how I move through the world. East London has always been full of energy, ideas and movement but it’s the people that give it meaning. It continues to shape who I am and how I work. It's where I learnt that creativity and care can, and should, go hand in hand.
