Former church reopens as art venue

Historic former church Dilston Grove in London’s Southwark will reopen as a contemporary art venue following an £870 000 renovation project.

Dilston Grove, which opens at the end of the month, will host large-scale site-specific installations from contemporary artists, including an inaugural exhibition by Congolese photographer and film-maker Sammy Baloji. The show launches a 25-year programme of art exhibitions at the venue.

Baloji’s exhibition Mémoire, which launches on 2 June, explores the issues facing the Democratic Republic of Congo through new photographic work and a film produced in collaboration with Congolese performance artist Faustin Linyekula.

The Grade II-listed building has been restored by Walter Menteth Architects after contemporary art group CGP London secured the building in 1999. The renovation, which began last year, includes new roofing and flooring, repairs to the walls and two new high-level windows.

The project has been largely funded by the Arts Council England, English Heritage and the Third Sector’s Community Assets Transfer Scheme.

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