Degenerate Space is an arts collective which makes site-specific, participatory performance and installation work concerning place, architecture, environment and identity. We aim to educate through participation and bring marginalised perspectives to the fore. Our projects have been created collaboratively through extensive research and development. In the past we have worked in politically and socially fraught contexts, such as areas of controversial regeneration schemes and contested land use, in order to counteract the false narratives, ignorance, and assumptions that characterise sites as needing ‘intervention’ by showcasing the strong personal, historical and collective identities they really hold through art and participation.

Solus and the City is a project consisting of the construction of a small ‘Solitude Shed’ – a structure based on rural mountain bothies built on an urban site in London. Accompanying the structure will be a collection of creative writing from women exploring themes of solitude, sanctuary, stability and individuality in the context of living in the city.

Women are paradoxically expected to provide solidity, structure and sanctuary whilst they disproportionately experience unstable positions in housing, work and society. In response, the shed will prompt participants to consider the necessity and availability of physical shelter and time alone in urban environments whilst showcasing women’s’ experiences of [or lack of] solitude, self identity and self-reliance.

We will be building the shed (everyone welcome to help!) in May, and collecting writing from now up until our event on the 9th June when we will invite the public to discover the project. We will host a picnic, sing traditional folk tunes, encourage participants to add to the writing and celebrate the women of the city.

How to get there: Greendale Playing fields are a bit tricky to find. The easiest way to access the shed is via East Dulwich Sainsbury’s - 80 Dog Kennel Hill, London SE22 8BB