A culture and art programme has been introduced for Lewisham’s London Borough of Culture 2022.
The programme showcases the power of culture and diverse communities in Lewisham with an aim for a “positive” change.
Described as “the inspirational programme” by the council, it provides a platform for the voices of people and inspires action through art, music, performance, and poetry.
The scheme, in partnership with the Albany, started on January 28 with a full schedule of other events planned across the whole year.
Lewisham residents are invited to get involved with a range of events within the programme.
The first day of the programme saw various events take place across the streets and venues in Lewisham.
A series of performances by the Trinity Laban and other music groups took place across different transport hubs.
The Art on Your Doorstep programme led by poet, Jacob Sam-La Rose, where artists used different art techniques for their work to be displayed in “unusual places”.
Residents were also invited to showcase their tapestry skills which will be displayed in Lewisham Shopping Centre throughout the year.
The We Are Lewisham film, in partnership with Landsec, was showcased showing residents celebrating the community while it was projected onto buildings in the borough.
Over 40 schools took part in the first of 12 monthly creative challenges by doing the LBoc Bop, a signature dance which has been choreographed by Irie Dance Theatre.
The scheme was introduced by the Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, in 2017.
Khan said the aim of the London Borough of Culture is to bring creativity to the doorsteps of Londoners.
He explained: “This incredible programme is doing exactly what it says.
"It develops skills, supports local businesses and provides opportunities for young people.
“I am proud the programme continues to bring people together to celebrate our communities and show that culture is for everyone.”
A celebration of Lewisham’s activist history and its "rich" contribution to music in Britain will start in March with a series of gigs curated by Dave Okumu.
A new public artwork about air pollution by artist Dryden Goodwin and Invisible Dust that pays tribute to Ella Adoo-Kissi-Debrah will also be on show.
The “longest-running” free festival, Lewisham People’s day, will also feature hundreds of live performances.
The programme was previously postponed for 12 months due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Locals who wish to get involved in their own events and activities can apply for funding through the Creative Change Fund from February 9.
Anyone wishing to volunteer can find opportunities through the council’s volunteering partner, Lewisham Local.
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