Nov 18, 2005
Author:Mr Gee
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For the past 22 years Brixton Art Gallery has been in existance working in conjunction with local, national and international artists to bring various different artforms into the heart of Brixton and also to showcase the cultural diversity of Brixton to the International Arts community. It's quiet and unassuming location on the side street of Brixton Station Rd has provided an unlikely setting for some of the most eclectic creative forms, bringing together sculpture, paintings, photography, poetry, drama, live music, comedy, film and DJ nights all under one roof.

It has worked in conjunction with several schools within its vicinity and provided Saturday drop-in workshops for local children to pursue and develop their own creative talents further. My own involvement with the Gallery started almost 4 years ago when I did my first proper performances of poetry for a new and exciting entertainment night being held there. The night had no name but was eventually dubbed "Brix-Tongue" by the mother of FLOetic Lara (another fellow poet who also made her debut that night).

Since then I have performed there regularly and used it as a space to practice and hone my own poetical writing and style. I have witnessed a slew of some of the finest Spoken Word artists perform their works within its hallowed walls and watched them in admiration as they have gone on to progress and take this artform further. I've always viewed the Gallery as a warm and friendly environment where budding writers and performers can quite literally step from the street (as I myself did) and feel comfortable enough to display their talent.

The Gallery is sadly facing closure due to a bitter dispute with the landlords which is affecting the whole street. The business rates and rents have been trebled as community-based projects are being shut down in prime locations (and moved along). I can't expand on the details further as it is currently being passed through the hands of lawyers, but if you would like to obtain further information or to just voice your support please e-mail:
brixart@brixtonartgallery.co.uk

For general information on the Gallery, click on the Brixton Art Gallery link on my "links" page