The South London Gallery (SLG), established in 1891 by philanthropist William Rossiter, has been a cornerstone of the London art scene for over a century. With the mission to 'bring art to the people of south London', the gallery has evolved into a dynamic platform for contemporary art, engaging with local communities and fostering creative dialogue.

Located on Peckham Road, the gallery has expanded over the years to include the Fire Station, which opened to the public in 2018, the Art Block, a creative space for local children and families on the Sceaux Gardens estate, and an artist-designed garden. These spaces host a year-round program of exhibitions and events, showcasing the best in international contemporary art.

The SLG places a strong emphasis on presenting new work by British and international artists, often those who have rarely or never had a solo show in a London institution. This commitment to emerging talent is complemented by group shows that bring together works by established and lesser-known artists. The gallery also offers an ongoing residency program, providing artists with the opportunity to develop new work and exhibit at the SLG.

Education and community engagement are at the heart of the SLG's mission. Thousands of children, young people, and adults participate in an extensive program of activities each year. This includes a peer-led young people’s forum, free family workshops, artist-led projects and commissions on local estates, and ongoing provision for school visits. The gallery also runs a program funded by BBC Children in Need for looked-after children.

Recent exhibitions at the SLG have included works by artists such as John Costi, Michelle Williams Gamaker, and Shamica Ruddock. The gallery has also hosted the Bloomberg New Contemporaries, a group show of emerging and early career artists. Press coverage of these exhibitions and the gallery's wider program can be found on the SLG's website.

As a registered charity, the SLG relies on the generosity of individual donors, companies, trusts, and foundations to fund its free exhibitions, artists’ projects, and education activities. Artists also play a crucial role in supporting the SLG, with many donating works to auctions or creating limited editions.

the South London Gallery continues to be a beacon of contemporary art in south London, providing a platform for international artists and fostering a vibrant and inclusive art community. As it continues to evolve and expand, the gallery remains committed to its mission of bringing art to the people of south London. Admission to the SLG is free for everyone, ensuring that art remains accessible to all.