UNVEIL THE STORY, BRING THE BEHIND THE SCENES FROWARD

Concept

Our project, Curtain Call, reimagines the unseen stories of Southwark’s industrial and cultural heritage, using the medium of theater curtains to symbolically bring hidden narratives to the forefront. Traditionally, curtains conceal what happens behind the scenes, but in our installation, they become a tool for revelation, transforming into a moment of learning before the cultural experience.

By conducting an in-depth urban analysis of Southwark, we explored its rich manufacturing history through historical archives, newspapers, and direct interviews with local communities. We identified that many archway businesses, once central to Southwark’s identity, had been marginalized and often portrayed negatively. Our research focused on three key public squares, which became the foundation for our urban regeneration proposal, aiming to restore a stronger identity to the area.

Our installation absorbs Southwark’s essence—both literally and metaphorically. Using fabric exposed to the natural elements, the curtain captures the textures, colors, and atmospheric conditions of the city, embodying its industrial past and ongoing transformation.

Installation & Exhibition

We designed and installed the curtain in two locations:

• O’Meara Theatre, an adaptive reuse space housed within an old archway, representing the transition of Southwark’s industries.

• Peckham Safehouse, where the installation was exhibited alongside other projects for the Southwark Heritage Team.

By placing the curtain in these contexts, we invited visitors to step behind the scenes, revealing the untold stories of local businesses, craftsmen, and communities confronting gentrification. Through this installation, we aimed to give voice to the forgotten and reignite appreciation for Southwark’s creative and industrial legacy.

Institution: UAL, MA in Design for Art Direction.

Brief: Exploring Southwark’s manufacturing history to create a community-focused exhibition.

Collaboration: Southwark Heritage Archive.

Concept: Uncovering narratives that highlight the area’s cultural heritage and creative legacy.

Professor: Lucy Sanders.

Artist: Filippo Antonelli.

Team: Madeleine Caiazzo, Violette Kirton, Lidia Lucini, Carla Vegas, Filippo Antonello.

Academic Year: 2023/2024.