“Our cultural gem and the first community artist space and studios in Harrow is being closed down” declare Usurp, following news that the landlord will not renew their lease.

Run by local residents and volunteers, Usurp launched their first gallery and afforable studio space in the borough ten years ago. Since they've hosted hundreds of events, workshops, exhibitions and performances as well as running learning and mentoring programmes.

“Social spaces, libraries and community centres are being closed down every day,” it's noted on the campaign page in a letter addressed to the Mayor of Harrow and the Mayor of London. “London has lost 35% of grassroots venues, 61% LGBT+ venues, and it is estimated that 24% of artists’ workspace sites are at risk of closure (Greater London Authority survey). Help us to find a new home so we are not another statistic.”

To sign the petition visit 38degrees.

The director of Usurp Art, musician and artist Poulomi Desai, wrote an Epiphany in The Wire 415. Subscribers can read that on Exact Editions.