Community darkroom operator faces eviction from Newham arts hub

Noroa Perez, operator of Musings Darkroom, has been asked to leave the Rosetta Arts community hub in Newham less than three months after being invited to set up her facility there. Ms Perez was given a month's notice to vacate the Hamilton Road premises at the end of September, having moved her equipment and operations there two months prior.

Affordable darkroom service

Ms Perez offers a community darkroom service at a rate of £15 per day, a price point she states is intended to support emerging artists who may not afford the average market rate of £40 per day. She told MyLondon that Rosetta Arts had initially contacted her about updating their existing darkroom facilities. Following negotiations, she relocated her own extensive equipment to the hub with assurances of a collaborative environment.

Shifting reasons for eviction

Ms Perez claims the justification provided for her departure has changed. Initially, she stated she was informed the reason was monetary. Subsequently, she was told that Newham Council required the space. "It doesn't make sense," Ms Perez told MyLondon. "I've been painting the space and bringing all the equipment in there, and my community, you wouldn't think I would only stay there for two months."

Community impact and petition

Concerned about the loss of an accessible facility for developing photographic work, Ms Perez has launched a petition to reverse Rosetta Arts' decision. She argues that the closure of her affordable service would hinder the development of new creative talents. "I don't do this for myself, it's giving people a platform, and that is the most important thing," she said. "It's going to be a real loss for the community; there are not many places where you can come and do these things."

Ms Perez has also contacted Newham Council regarding the situation. She expressed concern about the practicalities of relocating her equipment on short notice, stating that storage would result in significant financial loss. Rosetta Arts declined to comment when approached by MyLondon.