Joe is an independent artist and historian based in Enfield.
Discovering the Beast of Enfield
This project explored how students identify themselves through heritage of family and place, using the story of the borough’s heraldic beast called an Enfield - the animal that features on Enfield Council’s logo.
This painting is currently on display at the Museum of Enfield.
Painting of the Enfield Beast circa 1940s. Printer/artist W.A Mussett. This painting is currently on display behind the museum.
Students worked with artist Joe Robinson and carried out personal research on family history and looked at the history of the Enfield heraldic beast. This research was used to create a series of personal heraldry items as well as inspire the creation of Enfield beast banners.
Students designing their own heraldry.
Enfield beast banners designed by students.
The diverse nature of the animal formed the perfect tool for discussing complicated personal heritage and how people feel about the place they were born or live. One participant said: ‘it was amazing, it made me feel special about living in Enfield.’
Students displaying t-shirts with their own heraldic designs.
Photos credit: ©Discovering the Beast of Enfield project