WHAT WE’RE SEEING
Until 2 August
Photofusion, 17A Electric Lane, London SW9 8LA
Prefabricated housing is a very popular theme in architecture as a means to erect buildings quickly and cost-effectively. This photography and film exhibition by Elisabeth Blanchet reminds us where the concept came from, by bringing together 11 years of research and photography of the remaining communities of prefab houses across the UK which were built as a temporary solution to the housing crisis after the Second World War. Featuring interviews with the residents – many of whom have lived in their homes for over 60 years – the exhibition is an endearing account of the life sustained by these houses and the strong communities that have emerged.
Funded by the Arts Council, Part One of the project looks at the Excalibur Prefab Estate in Catford, south-east London. This estate of 186 homes, built by German and Italian PoWs in 1945/46, is the biggest prefab community in Britain. Six of these homes were granted Grade-II listing by English Heritage in 2009, but it has finally been marked for demolition by Lewisham Council who wish to redevelop the land.
For more information, visit: Photofusion
