Alys is a photographer based in north London. Her work has been included in over twenty international exhibitions, most recently at the Rencontres d’Arles in France and Somerset House, London. She was named Sony World Photographer of the Year 2018 for her series ‘Ex-Voto’ and the work was published by GOST Books in 2019.
Southbank has organically evolved into a place of cultural significance through the persistent creative use of skateboarders spanning over generations. Southbank is currently under threat of being destroyed and replaced by coffee shops and retail outlets. There has been an alternative skate spot preposed to be built under Hungerford Bridge, this at first glance seems like an appropriate solution. Unfortunately this undermines the grassroots movement that has been developed over the years. Skateboarders have utilised the unsuspecting angles of brutalist architecture in a way they were originally not intended, in doing so they have created a space that is special and unreplicable. You can help save this historic place by signing the petition.
A friend took me to this bar on Greek Street, I’m unsure of what it’s called or if it should be there, but it feels pretty authentic and makes you dream of the Soho of the 60s.
A wonderful collection of printed material organised chronologically throughout the space. Examples of old newspapers and other printed material give context and meaning for the visual styles.
In 1936 Oswald Mosley's British Union of Fascists attempted to march through East London in what was an attempt at an intimidating show of strength. Like today, this area was home to a large number of ethnic and religious minorities, particularly Jews. 300,000 people came out to oppose the march and blocked the route. The battle that followed was actually between the protesters and the police who tried to clear the route so that the march could take place. Seeing that they faced a losing battle and possibly a riot Mosley called off the march. The artist Dave Binnington began this mural in 1976 to commemorate that day, and it was eventually finished in 1982. The mural and the battle of Cable Street are both perfect examples of Britain at its very best.