If you’re not familiar with South-East London (beyond the likes of Peckham!), you might not be aware that the rest of it is pretty darn cool and there’s a real art scene in Deptford. On Deptford High Street you will find the wonderful Deptford Does Art: an art gallery, shop, creative space and now a LDNA stockist. We are extremely pleased to be represented in Deptford does Art.
ABOUT DEPTFORD DOES ART
Run by husband and wife, Zuzana and Dan, Deptford Does Art is the ultimate creative space showcasing a vast array of artists and makers. It is an art gallery, and a shop tastefully curated with gifts, prints, and cards from hundreds of independent small businesses. Alongside LDNA, you will find brands such as Mull Club creating beautiful products from plastic waste, L and Clay Ceramics, printmaker Strangford, Peony Belles Flowers, colourful handmade bags by K Sisters Studio, and artist and maker Nina Bombina.
So how did it all start? With the aim of celebrating local art, Zuzana started exhibiting work from local artists in the pub she was managing at the time, The Duke Pub on Creek Road, Deptford. This expanded to exhibiting in other venues across Deptford, including The Brookmill Pub, Deptford Cinema and Job Centre Pub. The motivation behind this idea was the desire to support artists by giving them space to showcase their work, to bring people together and the belief that art should be inclusive and open to everyone.
In 2017, the opportunity came to transform this project into a business - Zuzana with her artist husband Dan took up a permanent residence at 28 Deptford High Street. Deptford does Art was established to continue to support artists and makers by offering no upfront fees, ensuring most of the money goes directly to the artists and makers, and through offering mentorship and feedback, DDA provides small businesses with an opportunity to achieve their best growth in a commercial setting.
More about Deptford's Delightful offerings...
To continue the art journey in Deptford, you must check out the fine selection of art galleries and creative businesses concentrated along Resolution Way and collectively known as the Enclave. Here you will find art spaces such as Xxijra Hii, VSSL studio and studio/chapel. Other galleries in Deptford include Seager and APT Gallery.
Aside from the thriving art scene, Deptford is also a great destination for some good grub and a cheeky tipple. Check out Little Nan’s bar where your drink might be served up in a Sports Direct mug! Here you’ll probably catch yourself distracted from your conversation as your mind is marveling at the wacky and eccentric décor! Perhaps you might prefer your drink surrounded by the sleek hipster interiors of The Watergate.
Also in the area is Deptford Market, which is more of your local traditional market where you can pick up your bargain clothes and wares, as well as fruit and veg for your home cooking. However, if you want to eat out, then you’re sure to find some great culinary treats at Deptford Yard Market. For us, we can’t talk about food in Deptford and not mention the Vietnamese options, including Hanh and Sons, Viet Rest and our absolute favourite, Eat Vietnam. Finally, we must give a shout out to United States of Deptford who champion and positively represent the diverse Deptford community through telling stories of the local people.
Head down to Deptford and check this all out for yourself. And whilst you’re at it, don’t forget show LDNA some love, and let us help you show your love for being a Londoner.
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