New artwork display shows off work from Deptford Reach members

A captivating collection of photographs and writing created by vulnerable adults has gone on display at Deptford Lounge.

All the artwork has been produced by members of Deptford Reach, a day centre for local people who are vulnerable through homelessness, mental ill-health, loneliness, social exclusion and severe poverty.

The participants created the artwork as part of a 12-week project run by Create, the UK’s leading charity empowering lives through the creative arts, funded by Deptford Challenge Trust.

Guided by two of Create’s professional artists – photographer Alicia Clarke and writer James Baldwin – Deptford Reach members explored a variety of photographic techniques (including reportage and still-life) and writing styles (including monologues and short stories) in order to express themselves and find their voice.

Their artwork is now on display in the windows at Deptford Lounge until the new year, and can be seen for free by passers-by.

One of the participants said: “I’ve enjoyed every minute of the workshops.

“I like to do different things with my mind, like using the camera, writing and all that.

“I enjoy coming here to do it because it gives me something to do instead of sitting down indoors all day doing nothing. It helps me with my mind doing different things.”

Create founding chief executive Nicky Goulder said: “This important project gives vulnerable adults the opportunity to work creatively with our professional artists and one another, using photography and creative writing to break down barriers, build relationships and trust, reduce isolation, enhance self-confidence and self-esteem, and have fun.

“Never has this work been more important, at a time when everyone has experienced increased isolation, and it has been a privilege to enable these participants to express themselves and enhance their wellbeing over the past few months.

“I hope everyone enjoys the exhibition, which demonstrates their talent so wonderfully.”