Deptford X: east London's contemporary art festival

Associated media

27 July to 12 August 2012

In its 14th year, Deptford X is London’s longest running contemporary visual arts festival. This year, the festival continues to build on its reputation for showcasing cutting-edge art and bringing social and economic benefits to the local area.

Deptford X, experienced by over one million people to date, brings together some of the greatest artists from around the globe to Deptford, south-east London and mixes them with some of the most creative talent living in the area.

For 2012, Deptford X will be working with lead artist-curators Hew Locke and Indra Khanna. The festival will include new work by Hew Locke, as well as exhibitions by Doug Jones, Chicago-based artist Dzine, Henna Nadeem and Hidden Noise, as well as an extensive fringe programme.  The full programme for Deptford X 2012 will be announced at the end of May.

Since its inception in 1998, Deptford X has hosted exhibitions and events by Spencer Tunick, Will Self, David Mach, Yinka Shonibare, Mark Titchner, and Bob & Roberta Smith.

Deptford X also runs a vibrant community and education programme, producing new work with schools and community groups that have been exhibited in a variety of locations including Deptford train station, Deptford street market, local galleries, health centres and refuse trucks all over Lewisham, South-East London.

Deptford X also plays a major role socially and economically in Deptford, which is still one of the most deprived areas in the UK. In 2010, research found that 59% of Deptford businesses saw an increase in takings during the festival and no one witnessed a drop in takings.  The same research found that 98% of visitors felt that Deptford X has a positive impact on Deptford.

'A seal on the area’s creative credentials': Evening Standard
'Bigger and more international each year': Time Out
'A vibrant festival of contemporary art': GuardianGuide, Pick of the Week

You can keep up to date on Deptford X by signing up to receive their e-newsletters at www.deptfordx.org, liking them at Facebook, or following them on Twitter (@DeptfordX)