Haven for Emerging Artists
The George Tavern’s mission is deeply rooted in preserving the cultural and historical significance of the venue amid relentless property development threats. Since 2002, when Pauline secured The George Tavern to bring it back to life and protect its history, the venue has been a symbol of resistance against developers seeking to acquire and convert the Grade II-listed building into flats. Since her takeover of the venue, Pauline Forster, now 74, has been at the forefront of objecting to countless planning applications, exemplifying an unwavering determination to safeguard the venue’s identity. The biggest problem The George Tavern aims to solve is the existential threat posed by property development. In 2019, Pauline won a crucial landmark planning battle against noise complaints from a residential block planned behind it. This victory is only partly complete, seeing as the adjacent George Tavern function room are still under threat, and their potential demolition still hangs over the heads of Pauline and her team. This shockingly neglected space lies within The George’s grade 2 listing status. However, Pauline hopes to buy, restore, and bring it back into the fold of The George, where it is desperately needed to improve the opportunities provided to struggling, up-and-coming artists who would benefit greatly from the use of this space. The space serves as a beacon for both emerging and established artists, musicians, and creatives, but the uncertainty in the face of development threats remains a persistent concern. The venue’s resilience is a testament to the broader challenges faced by grassroots music venues, as well as pubs and drinking establishments, in the UK, and the delicate balance between cultural preservation and property development.
A Cultural Institution
Though the company focuses on positive impact, it is mindful of potential challenges. It strives to create an inclusive environment, and any negative consequences are addressed proactively through open communication and continuous improvement in its practices. Pauline highlights that it is not a business but a cultural institution, and its commitment to responsible and inclusive practices guides every decision. Meanwhile, she also mentions that corporate social responsibility is integral to its ethos. The George Tavern actively engages with the local community, supporting initiatives that promote the arts, education, and social well-being. From hosting benefit events to collaborating with local organisations, and paying staff the London Living Wage, its commitment to giving back is woven into the fabric of The George Tavern’s identity. Additionally, her column, ‘In My Words,’ in the East London Advertiser served as a platform to address local issues and contribute to community dialogue, and though due to the limited time she has due to the many responsibilities she now faces, Pauline continues to uphold those ideals and beliefs she held within those columns.
The George has gotten incredible support from the community, and has in turn made a profound impact on the arts by bringing creative and enterprising people together. While facing obstacles like navigating the evolving music industry landscape and adapting to changing cultural trends, this community has assisted in great ways. Every hurdle has been a learning opportunity for Pauline, and the journey has been immensely rewarding. These challenges have played a great role for her in procuring success with a steadfast stature in the business.
Though there is no one-size-fits-all formula, Pauline believes successful leadership involves a combination of vision, adaptability, a genuine passion for the mission, hard work, and determination. She suggests not being afraid of getting out the mop and bucket, as Mahatma Gandhi said, “each man’s labour is as important as another…Everyone must clean the latrine.” Leading with empathy and fostering a collaborative environment where everyone’s contributions are valued, as an artist and a leader, she sees The George Tavern as a canvas where each team member, each artist, contributes to the masterpiece she and her team collectively create. She believes that leading a venture is not about leading; it is about inspiring and being inspired by the artistic spirit that defines The George Tavern. “It’s a living, evolving entity shaped by the people it serves and the artists it embraces. It’s a testament to the power of community and creativity,” concludes Pauline.
