Looking Up in New X – crowdfunding opportunity

The Guardian described New Cross as “only for the intrepid”. Well we’re up for that. See here for our latest venture

 

Over the last 10 years Artmongers has been stirring things up in Deptford and New Cross with thought provoking public art that changes the way people relate to space. Taking back ownership of public space encourages all sorts of social benefits – not least the improved sense of well being while you’re taking part.

 

Lest year’s flash mob on the A2 highlighted the challenges pedestrians face getting from one side of New Cross to the other. We didn’t break any traffic rules but we definitely caused a stir. And this year’s campaign to plant 1000 sunflowers has involved hundreds of school children, Goldsmiths University, local businesses and community groups. It brightened up the place and more importantly it encouraged people to realize the possibility that it is our environment and we can choose how it is. Then recently we worked with another RSA supported project – Talk to Me London to create unexpected creative interventions at bus stops in New Cross including a disco.

 

So what’s this Looking Up about then? Two things:

 

1. In 2011 the council close the local library. 2 months later we reopened on a trial basis as a volunteer library. The venue has been rebranded as New Cross Learning (thanks in part to a Catalyst grant from the RSA) and is now a vibrant community hub with record numbers of visitors
2. Despite having the highest density of artists in Europe there’s no public art space here.

 

So the new idea is to create a giant 3D lightbox on the ceiling of New Cross Learning then work with local groups and emerging artists to create innovative artworks that change every few months.

 

With your support we can make it happen. Backers get to be part of the creative process and some levels get a piece of art for their home. Everybody knows they are part of transforming an area and empowering local residents – we are beginning to see a snowball effect.

 

Go here to find out more and maybe even back us.

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