Opening night: 20 November between 6pm – 8pm
General opening: 21 November to 4 December from 10am – 5pm (closed at weekends)
Address: Atrium, next to Blooms Yard, 2nd Floor, 100 Liverpool Street, London EC2M 2AT
Our annual art exhibition, opening on 20 November, will showcase work by artists with lived experience of homelessness and addiction. Each unique piece in the collection expresses a journey of recovery and creativity.
The Existential Exhibition will be opened by internationally renowned photographer and artist, Gareth McConnell on 20 November.
The exhibition marks the 60th anniversary of East London charity, Spitalfields Crypt Trust (SCT) and is being held in association with the Cob Gallery at 100 Liverpool Street, London.
The highly individual artworks have been created by students taking part in SCT’s art sessions. The works showcase the students’ passion and drive, as they use their experiences of addiction recovery to strengthen their journey of creativity.
The exhibition name, Existential, reflects the demands of rebuilding life beyond addiction and homelessness. This is the first time SCT has hosted an art exhibition that’s open to the public.
Commenting on the exhibition, Dr Louisa Snow, SCT’s CEO said:
“Rebuilding life beyond addiction and homelessness is demanding, and trying something new like participating in an art session can be challenging. But we know that with the right support, positive change is possible, and SCT art classes provide a safe space where talents are embraced and people can flourish. By sharing the artworks, we hope to break down some of the stigma associated with addiction and homelessness.”
Gareth McConnell, said:
“I feel honoured to be invited to open the Existential Exhibition. Each one of the artists sharing their work has used their experiences of addiction to create works that are hopeful and beautiful. They have voices that deserve to be heard, experiences that matter and creativity that needs to be recognised. Art and creativity have been part of my own recovery journey, and I feel privileged to be able to shine a light on this group of artists as they strive to rebuild their lives.”
Victoria Williams, Founder of the Cob Gallery, commented:
“Since the gallery was founded, we have been committed to supporting emerging talent. We are excited to be supporting the exhibition and championing a group of artists who have faced significant barriers and multiple disadvantages. By supporting the exhibition, we hope we can shine a light on the talents and creativity of artists who otherwise might be overlooked.”
For more information email fundraising@sct.org.uk
