Our Vision
St St. is a dynamic, inclusive arts space with artists studios, in the heart of Peckham, South East London, that challenges convention and nurtures both local and artistic communities.
Our vision is a cultural future that prioritises creativity over profit, and is deeply affirming of the arts' true value to society. We aim to be a respected and relevant arts space, where high-quality work across diverse disciplines is developed, showcased, and experienced. Rooted in our community centre heritage, we strive to be an accessible cultural hub where fun and creativity coexist. We seek to disrupt the traditional "white cube" by embracing a spirit of renegade creativity supporting artists of all levels through genuine opportunity. We aim to challenge the norms of the commercial art world and arts education, foregrounding making, dialogue, and experimentation.
Our mission is to be a springboard for artists, curators, and producers—including those excluded from traditional routes—offering studio space to test ideas, exhibition space to grow careers, and critical events that shape a more equitable cultural future. To be a platform for critical visual arts and stimulating events alongside a place for music, performance, dance and theatre.
Our mission objectives
- To create diverse, innovative and relevant programmes that provide a platform for diverse voices to discuss and debate contemporary arts and heritage.
- To provide an accessible artist-centred project space for exhibitions and cultural events for both early career and established artists and creatives.
- To provide affordable and high spec working studios for visual artists, designers & makers committed to contemporary art practice and our values.
- To support marginalised artists, such as recent graduates, who face barriers within the commercial art world, by providing access to exhibition opportunities and creative workspaces.
- To establish a support network through which visual artists, creatives and those interested to learn can meet and exchange ideas, skills, knowledge and information.
- To advance access to the arts in the local community.
Our Values
Creativity
We believe in creativity and its potential to increase learning, opportunities, wellbeing and social cohesion.
Quality
We believe in providing quality artistic experiences and opportunities for all to enjoy. We are committed to an imaginative and critical programme that inspires curiosity and creative learning.
Openness
We believe in being open and accessible to all corners of our community, valuing all voices. We strive to be approachable and inclusive, dedicated to creating a safe space where potential is nurtured.
Community
We believe in the power of community and collaboration to lead change and support each other.
Exciting
We believe in championing bold, exciting ideas and dedicated to providing a platform that fosters creative potential in a vibrant and fun space.
Welcoming
We believe in creating a warm welcoming environment where everyone feels a sense of belonging. We ensure that all who engage with our space and programme are met with kindness and respect.
Code of Conduct
To maintain a positive, inclusive, and inspiring environment, all staff, partners, and participants are expected to adhere to the following principles:
1. Inclusivity & Respect
Treat everyone with respect, kindness, and fairness. Staffordshire St. is a safe, welcoming, and inclusive environment for all, we do not tolerate actions or opinions that are hurtful to others, abuse of any kind or discrimination on the basis of race, gender, sexuality, religion, class, age or dis/ability.
2. Collaboration & Team Spirit
Listen to each other, share the space, encourage participation, and support a spirit of collaboration. Work together with an open-mind acknowledging that people’s experiences may differ from your own.
3. Creativity & Openness
Contribute to Staffordshire St.’s open values by sharing your creative skills and fresh ideas, supporting others in reaching their full potential and celebrating achievements.
4. Energy & Enjoyment
Help cultivate a space that is fun, warm, and friendly. Bring a sense of humor, joy, and playfulness to your engagement, while maintaining respect and care.
5. Assumptions & Boundaries
Do not make assumptions on the opinions of others or how they identify. Kindly ask first and then actively listen. Be mindful of and respect the personal, emotional, and social boundaries of others.
By following these principles, we create a vibrant and respectful space where creativity and community can thrive. If we witness or encounter any behaviour that does not respect the above, or we have this reported to us, we reserve the right to terminate an event, agreement or partnership or insist a member of the public leaves the building. We will report hate incidents and hate crimes.