Peabody Group

27 Dec

Peabody Group
Thamesmead creative Studio
Public Art Commissioning, Ongoing

Shalini Panchal, Comfort Adeneye, Qozeem Lawal, Gonzalo Fuentes and Whitney Manassian (L to R) by a-r-c-s.

In 2021 we were appointed by the Peabody Group, alongside Studio Danmole, and Joseph Gray to commission South Thamesmead's first piece of permanent public art. Rather than curate it ourselves we proposed piloting a project which looked at modelling ways to deliver public artwork where decision-making is delegated to residents.

The Thamesmead creative studio is a citizens assemble model of sorts, the opportunity provides on-the-job paid learning for local talent and creates opportunities for people to access careers in the creative industry as curators, commissioners, project managers and other roles beyond that of the artist.

The five founding members of Thamesmead's creative studio, Comfort Adeneye, Gonzalo Fuentes, Qozeem Lawal, Shalini Panchal and Whitney Manassian are all emerging creatives from Thamesmead who are passionate about where they live. The team have led all key decisions including writing the initial brief, selecting a shortlist and then choosing the commissioned artist, Jasleen Kaur.

“We’re a passionate and diverse team of young creatives, and we all care a lot about Thamesmead. This opportunity to commission new permanent artwork as a team is really ambitious, and it gives us the unique chance to make sure the work produced represents where we’re from, who we are, and what we’re about. Learning how to manage projects like this and what skills we’ll need to thrive in the creative industries moving forward is a massive bonus. Our aim here is to show how art and culture can help to positively impact Thamesmead. We’re committed to trying new things, inspiring others along the way, and creating work that actually matters for our community.” - The Thamesmead creative studio

Jasleen hopes that her completed art piece will allow Thamesmead residents to explore their hopes, dreams, and concerns for the future. She has been described as an artist who 'consistently delights and challenges audiences,' helping to shape culture and providing alternative ways for people to experience social history. From Glasgow to Gravesend, her work also examines identity and hierarchy throughout history, through a collaborative series of community events and design days with the cohort, the team have captured the complexity and nuance of the feelings that surround a changing place.

The final work will be installed in Spring/Summer 2024.