The Photographers’ Gallery has launched the Soho Photography Quarter (SPQ), a permanent new outdoor cultural space, presenting the very best of contemporary photography, for free. Offering dynamic new ways to discover the photographic medium, Soho Photography Quarter follows the refurbishment of Ramillies Place, which has transformed a previously overlooked alley into a beautifully designed, pedestrianised space and offers an inspiring gateway to Soho. The launch of the space extends The Photographers’ Gallery’s acclaimed exhibitions programme beyond the walls of the building and completes the development of its site in Soho as a centre of Photography.
A tranquil and accessible cultural space only seconds from Oxford Street, Soho Photography Quarter will present a rotating, open-air programme of site-specific and interactive artworks, which will change twice a year. The presentations will feature a significant art frieze in the main square, large-scale over street banners, plus moving image projections, soundscapes and other interactive works depending on the project.
Alongside the changing artworks, the Gallery will present a rich and engaging programme of activities and resources. From live events, artist talks and presentations, to short films, sound installations and specially commissioned AR projects, accessibility to the ideas and inspirations behind the projects will be a key part of SPQ’s offer.
The opening presentation for Soho Photography Quarter, Being Human Human Being, comprises a large-scale, site-specific installation of works - including a large-scale art frieze, cross street banners, soundscapes and projections - by the acclaimed Indigenous Australian contemporary artist, Dr. Christian Thompson AO, presented in partnership with Photo Australia / PHOTO 2022 International Festival of Photography, Melbourne. The Being Human Human Being installation is also one of the highlights of UK/Australia Season 2021-22, the largest ever cultural exchange between the two nations presented jointly by the Australian Government and the British Council.
Brett Rogers, Director, The Photographers’ Gallery, says: “Soho Photography Quarter (SPQ) represents the realisation of a long-awaited vision to transform the public area outside The Photographers' Gallery into a welcoming, prominent cultural and social destination for people to encounter extraordinary images for free. Photography is one of our foremost and most accessible cultural forms, so being able to showcase the very best of what’s being created in this field for everyone to enjoy feels like a really valuable addition to the cultural offer in the West End. SPQ will present a wide range of work from world-class photographers, extending the Gallery’s passion and commitment to the medium beyond the Gallery walls and engaging new audiences, who might not otherwise experience it. We will also offer free events, talks and other activities in the space to enhance visitor experience and bring the works to life.”
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