With forecasters promising a deluge of eschatological proportions, inclement weather did not sully the mostly outdoor private view of The Collective Summer Exhibition at the House of St. Barnabas (HoSB). The Collective exhibits work at the private arts club on a quarterly basis and is curated by Katie Heller of Patch London.
The HoSB is Britain’s only member’s club that is also a registered charity, devoted to the cause of homelessness. Featuring an impressive permanent collection, as well as many rotating works for sale, the HoSB Employment Academy is funded by a percentage of proceeds from membership and sales.
Keef Winter with his Center Point Sculpture
It was almost appropriate that the weather turned on the night of the opening, reminding those gathered in the outdoor space, or Courtyard, of the importance of shelter. The focus of the event last month was the unveiling of the Center Point sculpture by the seasonally inappropriately named Keef Winter. Unperturbed by grumbling skies, revellers stayed outside for his Hand Hammered performance that accompanied the sculpture. Heller describes Winter’s work as “a sleek site-specific aluminium structure that sits gracefully on the roof, responding to the steel girders set within the fabric of the building.”
Sculpture by Keef Winter featured in the Courtyard
Inside the Grade I listed building, guests admired works by other members of The Collective. The Chapel featured a video installation by the Pink Twins (no longer on view), while the other rooms feature work by Mat Collishaw, Susie Hamilton and the Connor Bros.
One half of the Connor Bros, James Golding
According to Heller, “the Summer exhibition is a rich and playful collection of both two dimensional works and site specific installations.” Whether outside braving the elements or inside the building, visitors to the HoSB can be guaranteed a new-found appreciation for both art and shelter. The work is on view until the fall and can be seen by appointment.
Installation by the Pink Twins in the Chapel
by Yasmin Bilbeisi
All photos by Iona Wolff