Imagining Deptford’s Future

In a taste of things to come, local families joined artist-printmaker Kethi Copeland last weekend for a day of printmaking workshops inspired by the Love Over Gold mural at Cockpit Deptford.

Known for distinctive prints that capture London’s diverse mix of architecture, Kethi was the perfect artist to lead the workshops.

Starting with a discovery walk, children and families sketched motifs and symbols from the mural, painted in 1989 by South East London artist Gary Drostle.

Drawings in hand, the children returned to the studios to etch their designs into boards ready to print, remembering that in printing everything is reversed: you have to think back-to-front.

Together, their artworks formed a celebration of the mural’s themes, imagining a future of wealth distribution, a healthy planet, and equity and inclusion for all.

Whilst the children were busy making art, their parents chatted with us about our dreams for the Deptford building’s renovation.  It was heart-warming to hear their enthusiasm for a restored space that will welcome local people year-round to explore the creativity on their doorstep.

Last weekend’s workshops are just the start of our community events hosted at Cockpit during 2022.   We’ll be inviting local people in throughout the year to discover our extraordinary world of making.

Watch out for announcements for our Summer Festival coming in June and an exciting project for We Are Lewisham London Borough of Culture where everyone can get involved.

A space filled with children’s laughter and creativity is just what we imagine for the future.

Thanks to our partners Filigree Communications for co-hosting the workshop.