The OASIS green space in Wandsworth has been derelict for well over a decade. It sits in a densely populated residential area, surrounded by estates and is close to Battersea Power Station and New Covent Garden Market.
Wandsworth Council invited me to run a creative workshop with the local community, celebrating the neighbourhood and what it currently has to offer. The workshop helped to generate innovative ideas and initiate discussion about the future use of the space, understanding what currently works and which areas lack. In speaking to workshop attendees, a safe outdoor area for the children to play was priority, whether it's a skate park or splash pad or something similar, I really hope that the locals are happy with what is delivered.
As part of a larger reimagining exercise, the council collected valuable research about what the local community could benefit from, and positively engage with the people who matter most - those living in close proximity to the site who would be using it.
I love being involved in creative reimagining exercises such as this. When it comes to community engagement, not everyone feels comfortable speaking in public, articulating their concerns or is inspired by the standard meeting room format. As a creative, I strongly believe in the power of play in an accessible environment to help tweeze thoughts and promote ideas and discussion in an exciting, proactive and collaborative environment.
Thank you to Wandsworth Council and the Nine Elms and Battersea community for involving me in this decision making process and embracing my work. and to artist PiNS for being my inspiring neighbour.
Artist PiNS created a collaborative art piece on the wall behind entitled ‘Groasis.’ Each segment of the artwork was decorated by a member of the local community, and on completion, revealed the word ‘GROW.’