The Unwelcome Collection present a new installation and durational performance, in response to their time at Peak. The piece features sculptural works made using materials found in and around the shopping centre, which come together to form a kind of set in which the performance will take place. The piece aims to ‘Upset’ notions of scale, thinking about literal and metaphorical architectures present in the area, and in addition to this, the politics of the image; of visibility or invisibility and how these things impact on personal freedoms and control. The Unwelcome Collection also continues to draw on their ongoing research into carnival mythologies, ‘Britishness’ and the politics of subculture. Specific histories in which hierarchy is disrupted through ridicule, and where visual displays of power are negated through mimicry and jest were particularly important in informing the work made during their time here.

The Unwelcome Collection is a multidisciplinary collaboration between Adam Gallagher, Ruth Angel Edwards and Curtly Thomas which seeks to disrupt the institutionalised art space and consider new and positive ways to create. We are based 10 minutes away from Elephant and Castle shopping centre. The Unwelcome Collection would like to thank Peak and everyone at the shopping centre having us here, and to express their support for the 35% Campaign.

Photo credits: Dexter Lander.