South London Art Attack

As well as having a thriving food and literary scene, London also takes the art world by storm. Contemporary art in particular, has had a monumental impact across the capital.

However, there is so much more to the city’s art scene than the Tate Modern or Saachi Gallery. There are a lot of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in South London. Tooting resident and artist Lucy says, ‘there’s always something exciting going on in the south, especially in local galleries or community spaces.’ From quaint galleries to one-day workshops, there is plenty for the artist or amateur art critic to view and do. As Lucy says, ‘here, art is for everyone.’ So, if you are looking for an art-filled short break or weekend, take a look at our suggestions and sketch out a plan…

Pump House Gallery, Battersea Park

Take the 44 bus from Victoria and head to your first destination. In the midst of the lush green scenery of Battersea Park is the Pump House Gallery. The building itself is a former Victorian industrial pump house which was partly used for the fountains of Battersea Park. Since 1999 however, it has provided visitors with the opportunity to see and participate in contemporary art.

The gallery also hosts a number of programmes and events throughout the year. Take a look at their website before visiting to find out what’s on.

The Boating Lake, Battersea Park

If a visit to the Pump House Gallery has inspired you to put pen to paper then take a seat by the picturesque boating lake and get drawing. Or capture a unique view by taking a little boat across the lake for half an hour or so…

Love Art, Tooting

Perhaps you want to find a unique gift or take part in an art workshop? You can do both at Love Art in Tooting Market. Jump back on the 44 bus from Battersea Park down to Tooting Broadway and visit the award-winning Tooting Market. Love Art sells a number of prints and original artworks and offer regular workshops for children and adults. Classes for children usually take place on Thursdays and Fridays and adult classes are on Saturday. Check out their website for dates and times.

No doubt you will want some food, so take your pick at the many street food stalls and cafés in the market. You may want to try Broadway Market just a few seconds away. Famous spots include The Plot where you can enjoy contemporary small plates.

Lewisham Arts Cafe

Start day two of your break in the beautiful Manor Park in Lewisham, less than 20 minutes away by train from London Bridge. Not only will the leafy green surroundings inspire you to sketch away, but the ArtsCafé is sure to get you in the mood for art. The café is run by local artist couple Fred and Banu and as well as offering hot beverages, sandwiches and cakes, there are also opportunities to take part in art classes. Check out the website for more details

Dulwich Picture Gallery

Continue your art journey by visiting what is often described as one of the most beautiful galleries in the UK – the Dulwich Picture Gallery. It was designed and built by Sir John Soane (1753-1837) after Sir Francis Bourgeois requested a permanent home for his old masters collection. It became the world’s first purpose-built art gallery. The gallery is home to over 600 paintings which includes European classics by artists such as Rembrandt, Ruben, Gainsborough and Canaletto.

Exhibitions, events, lectures and talks also take place throughout the year, so you could end up spending a few hours here. After admiring the art, stop for a breather and grab something to eat at the café. It caters for all tastes and overlooks the magnificent garden. Tickets for the permanent collection are £8 for adults. Check their website for more information.

The White Cube

If you stay in the south-east and head on to Bermondsey, you will find the White Cube. This contemporary space has previously exhibited the likes of Tracy Emin and Damian Hurst and accommodates three major exhibition spaces. There are also private viewing rooms, an auditorium and bookshop. Exhibitions are free and you can also attend free film screenings.

So, whether you like creating art or simply admire it, South London offers you lots to do come rain or shine.