Boxed In

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BOXED IN AT SURREY QUAYS SHOPPING CENTRE

A SOUTHWARK artist is inviting members of the public to help him recreate a living room – made out of cardboard.

Artist Rod Kitson is working in the Surrey Quays shopping centre using waste material produced by the surrounding shops to make tables, chairs, cabinets and even a grandfather clock.

The project, called ‘Boxed In’, is the second lockdown-themed exhibition he has run in the Art of Isolation pop-up gallery in South East London.

He is managing the space like a workshop, with visitors able to bring designs of their own to build, be guided in how to make things or simply have a look at what others have created.

They can also paint the items or design wallpaper to hang on the walls.

“I thought this would be a great way to reflect on the amount of time we have had to spend in our homes during the lockdown. If we can reduce waste while we’re at it, and reuse materials that would have been thrown away, then that’s a bonus.

“I love to make use of things that would be chucked away, especially if I can use them artistically. It’s good to think about materials and resources in a different way. And with all the shops in the shopping centre, there is no shortage of cardboard to be had!”

Boxed In is the latest community art project by Rod, who earlier this summer curated the Art of Isolation exhibition of 230 works of art by 140 artists – all made during lockdown.

All tools and material are provided. It is open to all ages, under 16s must be accompanied and supervised by an adult, and face coverings must be worn at all times with social distancing measures observed. It is free to take part.

- Boxed In runs until Tuesday September 15. Tuesday to Sunday 11 am to 5pm. Thursday 12 noon to 5pm. Closed Monday.