The new Westfield centre opening up in Stratford City has launched its Studio East initiative, joining the likes of Tracey Emin, Tom Dixon, Roland Mouret, Erin O’Connor and Mary Portas to form a Cultural Panel. Studio East by Westfield Stratford City will provide a bursary for a series of commissions which, on opening, will be incorporated into the new £1.45bn development. The commissions will be selected by the Panel who represent expertise across the four categories of fashion, art, product design and environment.
 
Studio East is aiming to engage a cultural community to identify, foster and nurture the freshest new talent across four distinct categories. This initiative will create a fusion of sustainable art, design, culture and fashion within the dynamic environment of Westfield Stratford City which will create a new benchmark for the future of retail. With more than 300 shops plus office, hotel and leisure space, Westfield Stratford City will be the largest urban shopping centre in Europe and will create the next generation in retail development.
 
Westfield Stratford City will open in the latter half of 2011 and is the prestigious gateway to the Olympic Park. The scheme is anchored by John Lewis, Marks & Spencer, Waitrose and a 12 screen Vue cinema.