Atomic 50: Time Travels in Tin

Stepping Back in Time

Atomic 50 explored the fascinating past and exciting potential of tin in the 21st century. In operation for just a month, the factory offered an opportunity for new recruits to become makers of the future.

Blackhorse Workshop transformed a disused school building in Leyton into a ‘ghost factory’, in a radical reimagining of the traditional learning environment, leading participants on an exciting journey through time and metalworking.

Hands-on Experience

As participants traveled through the different rooms of the Atomic 50 factory, there were opportunities to get creative. Everyone who passed through the factory was able to learn basic metal making skills, and imagine new possibilities for the future.

Who were the workers?

Designed for children aged 7-11 years old (and inquisitive parents and guardians), Atomic 50 presented a series of environments in which to make, create, learn and play. Hands-on activities gave the young “workers” the chance to try out new skills and dream up big ideas.

The Spaces

Each space was dressed as a different immersive scene

Blackhorse Workshop worked with acclaimed performance artist Abigail Conway and set designer Soraya Gilanni Viljoen to create this fantastical one-off installation.

Learning and sharing

Speaking about her involvement in the project, Abigail Conway said: "My art practice is all about learning new skills, and sharing them with participants. In this way, there’s an excellent fit with Blackhorse Workshop, who are experts in making and fabrication."