‘Catford finally has a cathedral’: Artist opens up his shed to the public
By Karen Miller
In 1987, the Catford Broadway Theatre was abuzz with excitement as the renowned African American poet and writer Maya Angelou graced the stage.
Among the many drawn to the event, few might have noticed the three large abstract pieces of art quietly displayed in the foyer’s glass case.
These were the works of Michael Connell, a local Catford artist, marking his debut exhibition in the borough of Lewisham. This modest beginning was the first step in what would become a remarkable artistic journey spanning more than four decades.
Mr Connell moved to the UK from Barbados with his family in 1965. He studied art at Waltham Forest College in the 1980s.
Since that early exhibition, Mr Connell’s art has been featured in numerous venues across Lewisham, including the Lewisham Shopping Centre, the Lime Light Gallery, and even the Lewisham Police Station.
His work gained broader recognition in 2016 when it was showcased in the finals of Channel 4’s George Clarke’s Shed of the Year and appeared on BBC television and London Live.
More recently, in 2023, Mr Connell received the prestigious BUILD Environmental Sustainability Award for Best Recycled Material Artwork.
The award came after Mr Connell used leftover timber from a previous construction job to create a shed in his back garden. The shed is also a gallery space filled with other works Mr Connell has created from recycled materials.
Mr Connell’s distinctive style has made him a notable figure in the local art scene.
His unique appearance, often characterised by a hat adorned with feathers on both sides, even drew a comparison to the late Mr. Pink—a beloved and eccentric Lewisham character known for his vibrantly decorated home.
He said: “A couple of years ago, I was on the bus and overheard a young girl whisper to her mother, ‘He looks like Mr. Pink!
“I could only assume it was the hat.”
Despite his many achievements, Mr Connell’s journey has not been without challenges.
Currently in remission from cancer, he has found solace and purpose in his art, using it as a form of therapy.
He said: “Art has kept me focused and moving forward.”
His dedication to his craft is evident in the ongoing project he has been nurturing for the past 40 years, transforming discarded materials into captivating works of art.
He said: “There is so much waste and rubbish out there.
“If I can take that and turn it into something beautiful, then hopefully it will inspire the next generation.”
Mr Connell’s creative sanctuary, his shed, has become an embodiment of his vision.
During a recent exhibition, a visitor remarked, “Catford has finally got a Cathedral,”—a compliment Mr Connell holds dear.
He believes his shed, like Mr. Pink’s house, has the potential to become a landmark in Lewisham, symbolizing the vibrant, artistic spirit of the community.
As Mr Connell continues to build his legacy, he is inviting the public to experience his work firsthand at his upcoming free exhibition on September 7 and 8.
For those who appreciate the transformative power of art, this is an event not to be missed.
As the exhibition will take place in his back garden, Mr Connell has asked those who would like to attend to contact him via his email michael_bajan@yahoo.co.uk or mobile number : 07949230913.
Pictured top: Michael Connell inside his shed and exhibition space in his back garden (Picture: Calum Fraser)