The South London Gallery (SLG) is a locally, nationally and internationally recognised centre for contemporary art with an acclaimed and award-winning education programme. Founded in 1891 as a purpose-built gallery, the original site has expanded to include the Clore Studio, a flat for artists in residence, and a café (since 2010); an artist-designed garden (opened in 2016); the Fire Station (opened in 2018); and Art Block, a space for local children and families on Sceaux Gardens estate.  

Since its first expansion in 2010, the gallery has grown from welcoming 25,000 visits per year to over 150,000. The SLG is embedded in the local community with a programme that reflects art practices today, supports artists and commissions new work.   

The year-round exhibitions programme showcases the best in international contemporary art, complemented by an events programme for people of all ages and interests. The gallery’s emphasis is on presenting new work by British and international artists, often by those who have rarely or never had a solo show in a London institution. Group shows bring together works by established and lesser-known British and international artists, whilst an ongoing residency programme provides opportunities for artists to develop new work and exhibit at the SLG.  

Providing opportunities for learning and participation is at the heart of the gallery’s purpose, and each year thousands of children, young people and adults take part in an extensive programme of activities. This includes a peer-led young people’s forum; free family workshops; a dedicated creative space for children, artist-led projects and commissions on local estates; ongoing provision for school visits; and a programme funded by BBC Children in Need for looked-after children.