LONDON ARTIST | M.RODWELL

Gated Communities, Closed Doors: The Exclusive Nature of Art Spaces

I visited a local drawing room set up a street away from my home here in Bermondsey. It’s a relatively new development which has luxury apartments and businesses on the grounds. A gated community would probably best describe it with the intercom systems at different entrances to the estate. On proceeding to the drawing room to make enquiries, about hiring the art gallery space, I was faced with a lot of obstructive responses on asking about hiring the gallery. But gleaming above one of the doors said ‘Community’. I don’t wish to sound ungrateful but within the Borough of Southwark this word community is becoming synonymous with clique. If you live within these gated estates or boundary roads you are more then welcome, if not you are discarded and given excuses. At the time of my enquiry, I was advised the gallery space was available to those using the private drawing rooms. But those not enrolled in studio hired space had a waiting time until 2026. This obstructive conversation really did shock me. I accept I’m a well-established artist locally but for any artist seeking to get into the scene without a voice I want to call it out for what it is. A clique, that is dividing communities and not offering the all-important spaces struggling artists need. If these new developments are to be built and the word community and gallery used I ask we see a change in policy. Allow the surrounding community to join in and show off their work. I’ve brought this into question with my local MP and I’m most grateful to see they are making enquiries on my behalf. If new developments are getting funding from the state but are cherry picking clients should they loose there entitlement to government funding in a time of austerity. It is a question I’ve been asking myself today.

Table runners are a versatile and often underestimated piece of decor that can transform the look and feel of any dining space. They bring a touch of elegance, warmth, and style to tables, making them an essential element for various occasions and settings. From formal dinner parties to casual family gatherings, table runners offer a range of benefits that go beyond their aesthetic appeal.

Sad news ‘Lovely and British’ gift shop on Bermondsey Street, SE1 3TX is having a closing down sale. Yes, you heard me correctly. Having displayed my artwork for many years in this lovely store it is really sad to see it go. I have also worked part-time in the shop and will miss all the interactions with the public.

The charity exhibition and auction is set to take place at the Mercato Metropolitano in Elephant and Castle London on the 26th – 28th May 2023. This event will be a great opportunity for people to come together to support a good cause and have the chance to bid on unique art items.  A variety of talented artists are coming together to showcase their work for a charity auction.  There will be a range of different styles of art represented.

Being that I work a couple of days a week at ‘Lovely and British’, Bermondsey gift shop I managed to get a cameo scene in the advert. Harry Enfield in warden mode, slaps the shop window with a ‘culture ticket’. I’m at the till and attempt to look surprised, disgruntled and confused. What is this warden up to. Surely he should be fining the cars parked on the double yellows? But what’s this he’s a ‘CULTURE WARDEN’. This is a new one on me Southwark Council. lol

Some people trawl the racks of shops, visit galleries and admire other peoples art work. I’ve never been one for over analysing other peoples work because it over shadows my own creative inspirations. That said I get on my trusted bicycle and cycle around the streets of London. It brings me much joy and breaks off the shackles associated with working.

The artist discusses his love for impressionist artwork and what inspires his own creations. From child hood memories to his favourite artist dating back to the 1800’s. A candid insight into M.Rodwell view on art.

Don’t miss out on the Pexmas Market on Friday the 10th December 2021 from 1pm-8pm

Copeland Park, Peckham, South London, SE13 3SN

Did you know we launched a new range of pencil prints, coloured acrylic prints and looking forward to the Bermondsey festival 2021. Come and find out more.

Free Christmas gift wrapping service. Click and Collection on Canvas Art. Plus new Lifestyle photos.

Open for business online. Limited stock available.

An insight into life in lock-down in Southwark, South London by artist M.Rodwell April 2020.

Tolpuddle Fair 2019