Curating Community: Inside Harlesden High Street
Join us for our October Upgrade Yourself Monthly as we step into the dynamic world of artist-led galleries and grassroots curation.
For 18–30 year olds
| Dates | Wed 1 Oct 2025 |
| Times | 6pm - 9pm |
| Space | The Exchange New Wing |
| Price | Free |
Please note this event is for 18–30-year-olds.
This session brings you behind the scenes of Harlesden High Street, a boundary-pushing gallery rooted in Northwest London. Director, Jonny Tanna and Gallery Manager Sophie, will take you through the journey of how and why the space was founded and share insights into running a small and impactful gallery.
They’ll explore highlights from past exhibitions and unpack what it takes to bring them to life. From installation to artist collaboration, to how independent galleries engage with the commercial side of the art world. Expect a candid, practical look into the realities of running a creative space in today’s industry.
Then, in the hands-on workshop Build Your Own Gallery Show, you’ll be invited to step into the role of curator. Working in small groups, you'll use a selection of artworks inspired by real exhibitions at Harlesden High Street to create your own exhibition maquette (mock-up model). Guided by Jonny and Sophie, you’ll consider:
- How to activate a space through art and storytelling
- How installation impacts audience engagement
- What it means to curate with community in mind
You’ll leave with a new lens on the curatorial process and the confidence to imagine your own creative space in the world.
As always, free drinks and food, provided by Butch Salads, will be available throughout the evening.
✨ And here’s the bonus:
All attendees will get a free ticket to 1-54 Contemporary African Art Fair at Somerset House - the leading art fair celebrating contemporary African art and its diaspora. Explore bold, innovative works by artists and galleries from around the world in a unique setting.
AND a free ticket to Minor Attractions, an art fair co-founded by Jonny Tanna. Minor Attractions is an art fair designed as a space where art and nightlife meet, allowing the swells of international publics to mingle with the artists and art workers that make the art world tick. Galleries are encouraged to bring exciting and daring work, creating a new context for London’s buzzing art scene.
To get involved in the session, please sign up below:
Sign up will close 10am Tuesday 16th September, successful participants will be notified by Wednesday 17th September.
Spaces are limited, and participants will be selected at random. If you're chosen, you'll need to confirm your attendance - otherwise, your spot may be offered to someone else. Please check your spam folder!
By signing up for the session, you will automatically be added to the waitlist if the session is full.Sign up will close 10am Tuesday 16th September, successful participants will be notified by Wednesday 17th September.