This is an exhibition and workshop programme celebrating the creativity and community spirit of Camberwell, Peckham and the wider borough of Southwark.
The project is inspired by the African philosophy of Ubuntu, which was popularised by anti-apartheid activists Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela and rooted in the Bantu and Xhosa traditions of Southern Africa, embodying the notion that our humanity is deeply interconnected. The phrase ‘I am because we are’ expresses values of community, collectivism and shared responsibility, fostering an awareness of how our lives are shaped by those around us.
Drawing on this philosophy, the exhibition showcases a vibrant display of creative responses exploring themes of belonging and collaboration, from photography and collage to ceramic tiles and more. Many of the works were developed through University of the Arts London’s (UAL) Outreach and Insights programmes in collaboration with local schools and businesses. Highlights include a striking, large-scale wall hanging, a furniture design project exploring how chairs contribute to communities, and an immersive VR experience with 3D scans of these designs.
Alongside these artworks, Ubuntu – I am because we are features an evolving collection of postcards offering unique diverse responses to the Ubuntu message of community, connection and shared humanity, each shaped by contributions by the public. The postcard project currently boasts over 50 contributions and remains open for submissions throughout the duration of the exhibition, inviting visitors and community members to add their own voices and continue to transform the gallery into a space of shared stories. Visitors can also explore a dedicated listening space in the gallery to engage with a series of educational podcasts, including one reflecting on Ubuntu and the exhibition’s themes.
Jason Forrest, Student Partnership Manager at UAL and Co-Curator of Ubuntu – I am because we are says:
“This initiative aims to enhance social justice and connect art, design, and performance in response to today’s sociopolitical climate, guided by the Southern African philosophy of Ubuntu. I am because we are”
Ian Thompson, College Outreach Manager and Co-Curator of Ubuntu – I am because we are, explains:
“The Camberwell, Chelsea and Wimbledon Colleges of Arts outreach team are really excited to be able to work with our Insights students to develop and celebrate their ideas around Ubuntu and to create new relationships with internal and external creatives through our calls for artworks and workshop proposals”.
Running alongside the exhibition, Ubuntu – I am because we are, presents a dynamic programme of free workshops led by celebrated artists, makers and community facilitators.
More information and booking: https://www.arts.ac.uk/whats-on/ubuntu-i-am-because-we-are
