A new art exhibition organised in memory of community stalwart Julie Stephenson is set to open in Leytonstone.

Julie passed away suddenly in September 2013 from a heart condition related to diabetes. She was just 56.


Epping Forest Guardian:

The former social worker was renowned for her community spirit, helping those less fortunate and tirelessly fundraising for charities including Positive East and the Vine Project, which supports disadvantaged children in Africa.

Organised by friend Isaac Samuels, the show will feature the works of 18 artists, some of whom have created pieces specifically for the exhibition.

“Julie was someone that never took no for an answer, she changed so many people‘s lives for the better,“ explains Isaac.

“She will be missed by the universe because she believed like Anne Frank, whom she loved, ‘How wonderful it is that nobody need wait a single moment before starting to improve the world‘.“

The show has been entitled Tree of Life, which in itself is a narrative therapy approach.

“Julie loved the ‘Tree of Life’ as a creative metaphor and a therapeutic approach,“ adds Isaac.

“This exhibition will use this narrative therapy approach as its underpinning in light of Julie‘s connection and passion to this approach. In essence, narrative therapy involves ‘telling our stories in ways that make us stronger‘.“

As well as acting as an opportunity to reflect upon Julie‘s life, the exhibition will further seek to support a cause particularly close to her heart – the Re:Assure Women‘s Project for refugee, asylum-seeking and migrant women who are living with HIV.

Epping Forest Guardian:
The Tree of Life Show runs at The Stone Space Gallery, Church Lane, E11, from Thursday, July 17 to Sunday July 27. Details: www.thestonespace@wordpress.com