‘Occupied Spaces’ – Book, Artist Talk and Group Show

I’m really excited to be working with Harry Hardie and Ben Weaver from HERE Press on a small book of my Occupied Spaces work. Made in reaction to claims by the right wing press that the tents at the St. Paul’s occupation were uninhabited, the photographs countered this view by showing the tent interiors, inviting the viewer to observe the traces of ongoing life that were in effect ‘proof’ of inhabitance.

The book is timed to coincide with my participation in a group exhibition at Bread and Roses in Clapham as part of the Bread and Roses Centennial Celebrations, marking the centenary of the 1912 “Bread and Roses” textile workers strike. Primarily a film festival, screenings will be held in the Clapham Common bandstand, the largest and oldest surviving bandstand in London, the studioSTRIKE community cinema, community centres in Lambeth and cinemas across London. There will also be work on display by Anna Fox and Lewis Hine from the Library of Congress.

'Occupied Spaces' - front cover design

The book includes an engaging essay by Naomi Colvin, part of the original Occupy LSX  media team; A talented writer and activist, Naomi was a natural choice to collaborate with; she provided vital assistance when I made the work, and has proved to be adept at articulating the aims and intentions of the Occupy Movement in the national press.

The Occupied Spaces book will be launched on the 23rd April, 6.30pm at Bread and Roses in Clapham; I’ll be talking about the work with Harry Hardie from Here Press. There’ll be signed copies of the book available for sale, and of course great hospitality at the pub itself. You can find out more, and also book tickets by visiting the event page here. Watch this space for more details about the book, including online sales, dimensions and edition numbers.

 The book launch is the day after I take part in the London Marathon, so I’ll be the one walking a bit painfully!