More about the project

Tate Exchange Residency, funded by Nine Elms Vauxhall Partnership, and in partnership with Gasworks, Beaconsfield Gallery Vauxhall and Pump House Gallery.

October 2016 – March 2017

Collective Matter is a new outreach art group, initiated by Eva Masterman, Mary O’Malley and Katie Spragg. Brought together during their time at the Royal College of Art on the Ceramics and Glass MA, they aim to use clay as a primary vehicle for critical engagement, cross-disciplinary practice, and creative communication and experimentation.

Collective Matter have been commissioned by Nine Elms Vauxhall Partnership to develop a six-month residency programme with Tate Exchange; Material Action. Produced in conjunction with the Tate Modern and three local galleries, Pump House Gallery, Beaconsfield  Gallery Vauxhall and Gasworks, this project revolves around the changing narrative of the Lambeth and Wandsworth. Through a series of creative workshops – ranging from practical clay activities, storytelling, guided walks and discussion groups – Collective Matter will be collaborating with local young people (14-25 year olds), to share stories and experiences of their local environment.

The focus on clay as a facilitator of exchange and creativity comes from its inherent qualities; its immediacy and tactility. Its transitional nature is the perfect metaphor for the evolving heritage of the area. Clay is an integral part of South London’s past and future; Vauxhall was once home to Royal Doulton and clay (brick) is the main building block of both the area’s current transformation and the existing buildings. It is the ground that we walk on and is a material that constantly changes state, from raw to fired, from mud to cherished heirloom. Collective Matter will be running a series of workshops that explore these ideas at the three partner galleries throughout December – March.