New Easterhouse Mosaic

Hidden in plain sight, the New Easterhouse Mosaic whispers stories of the past and present. This vibrant artwork isn’t just a pretty facade on Platform Arts Centre. It’s a 25-meter-long tapestry of community, history, and artistic vision. Unveiled in 2012 as part of the Glasgow International Festival of Visual Art, the New Easterhouse Mosaic pays homage to its predecessor, the iconic Easterhouse Mosaic of the 1980s. That original mosaic was a symbol of community pride, created by the people of Easterhouse. It sadly disappeared in 2004. Artist Alex Frost took up the challenge, breathing new life into the concept with this modern masterpiece. Frost’s creation isn’t just a replica. It’s a reimagining, incorporating elements of the old while reflecting the present. Look closely at the 600 porcelain panels. You’ll see profiles of people who use the building, a testament to the community that calls this place home. You’ll also find symbols of modern communication, like those used in text messages, woven into the design. This blend of old and new, handmade and technological, is a hallmark of Frost’s work. The creation of the New Easterhouse Mosaic was a true community effort. Funded by a variety of organizations including Creative Scotland, Glasgow School of Art, and even the local community planning partnership, it represents a shared investment in art and culture. The mosaic’s construction also required innovative techniques. Each panel was fabricated off-site and then installed using a blend of traditional and modern methods. Collective Architecture oversaw the project, working closely with Frost and the contractor, KELSEN, to bring this vision to life. The New Easterhouse Mosaic isn’t just an artwork; it’s a conversation starter. It’s a tribute to the past, a reflection of the present, and a promise for the future of Easterhouse.