After more than a decade, the time has come for Ugly Duck to close its doors.
This June, Ugly Duck is hosting A Collective Archive, a four-day celebration of artistic practices opening on Thursday June 12. Highlighting the creative vision, resistance and communities that have shaped this much-loved Bermondsey destination over the past thirteen years. A Collective Archive, curated by in-house creative producer Deen Atger, features an exhibition, a range of performances across the week and a party to celebrate. In addition, Ugly Duck will have a broadcast courtesy of Montez Press Radio and will also be running a free collage workshop highlighting the organisation’s emphasis on sharing and inclusion, all are welcome.
Confirmed artists taking part include Biogal, Blanca Regina, Chloé Filani, Claye Bowler, Elodie Gatacre & Aster Munro, Fiona Albrow, Georgia Semple, Hazel Blair, Inès Michelotto, Jean Cleverley, John Lee Bird, Josh Quinton, Joy Kincaid, Martin O'Brien, Puer Deorum, Rough Fabrics, Svar Simpson, Shadi Al-Atallah, Sophie Brain, Oduenyi Nwike with more to be announced.
What began as a temporary project space has, for more than a decade, evolved into a home for experimental, interdisciplinary and socially engaged work. Ugly Duck has continually sought to champion underrepresented voices and ideas, providing a platform for creative exploration beyond commercial and institutional constraints. Year after year, the need for a place where artforms can be explored freely, without the pressure of ticket sales or access, has become clear. From the outset, Ugly Duck has always been a space where risk-taking, play and collaboration are not only possible but actively encouraged.
Deen Atger says: “ As we prepare to say goodbye to the space, we are launching A Collective Archive - a four-day invitation to reflect on underground practices, resistance, and collective organising. This isn’t a mourning. It’s a celebration of what’s been possible—and a call to imagine what comes next. Please join us during the event June 12–15 for a final celebration”
Full programme:
Thursday 12th June: Opening soirée, exhibition and performances from Biogal and Southwark Pride artists curated by Bold Mellon Collective, 6-9pm Tickets £8-£12
Friday 13th June: Exhibition open from 1pm, Free. Ticketed performance from Martin O’Brien £8-£12
Saturday 14th June: Archive collage workshop 2-5pm, Panel talk live radio show 3pm Free. The Last Dance evening party plus Sophie Brain. DJs Josh Quinton & members of Tribe Incorporated £8-£12
Sunday 15th June: Closing performances from Chloé Filani, Puer Deorum and Joy Kincaid £8-12
Tickets: Weekend Pass £40.00 Conc. £25.00 - BOOK NOW
Further Information: A Collective Archive - Ugly Duck Tickets