DRUMMOND STREET ARTISTS EXHIBITION: ARTISTS WITH EXPERIENCE OF HOMELESSNESS

WHEN: From 4th August 2023, during ODAC’s opening hours

LAUNCH EVENT: 3rd August 2023, 6pm - 9pm

IN DISPLAY UNTIL: End of September

WHERE: ODAC Foyer

Geraldine Crimmins - a local artist, previously featured in the Big Issue - founded the Drummond Street Artists in January 2023 at ODAC, on Drummond Street.  Post-pandemic, Geraldine saw that there was nowhere in London for precariously sheltered people to go at the weekend for a cup of tea, a chat or to do anything creative. This realisation - and a fortuitous conversation with an enthusiastic donor! - led to the creation and development of Drummond Street Artists (DSA), funded by a longtime collector of Geraldine's work.

Since its conception, the DSA open studio has gone from strength to strength, attracting artists from all over the city who have been affected by homelessness.  20 participants - a mix of rough sleepers, hostel dwellers, and professional artists - come to paint, and have something to eat, and feel part of a community.  Geraldine has been running mentoring and welfare programs for artists affected by homelessness for over 5 years, her intention being to build on her own experiences of homelessness, addiction and a prison sentence; and to pass on the opportunities she has had since recovering. 

The DSA have developed a large body of eclectic work, spanning different genres, some of which will be available for sale at Old Diorama Arts Centre throughout the month of August.  There will be a launch event on Thursday 3rd August 6-9 pm where all are welcome to view - and potentially purchase! - unique works of art of a high standard, affordably priced from £45. 

Follow @drummond_street_artists and @geraldine_crimmins on Instagram for updates.

For more information about the exhibition, including how to purchase, get in touch with claire@olddiorama.com

If you are interested in Geraldine’s weekly studio workshop - and feel that you fulfil the criteria - you can contact her via geraldine@olddiorama.com.