Forma has taken over the gallery space at 15 Bermondsey Square, with a clear vision: to be artist-driven, support the commissioning and production of interdisciplinary contemporary art and engage with local communities. We sat down with members of the Forma team—Antonia Shaw, Lottie Gomes, and Chris Rawcliffe—to discuss their exciting plans for the vitrine space and how they plan to shape its future.
Chris Rawcliffe, Forma’s Artistic Director, expressed Forma’s principal value of being guided by the needs of the artists when working with them to commission the public art programme. This ethos and the support Forma provides to the artists they work with is evident and an integral part to the success of the organisation.
The gallery’s programme is already mapped out until early next year, with installations rotating every few months. Visitors and passers-by can expect to see an evolving mix of collage, ceramics, paintings, and even a special festive display toward the end of the year. Notably, the upcoming exhibitions will platform brilliant woman artists, many collaborating as duos to bring their commissioned pieces to life.
A Gallery Without Walls
Unlike traditional galleries, Forma’s Bermondsey Square space is separated from the outside world by just a glass wall, making it a truly public-facing exhibition. At the same time, it remains sheltered from the elements, offering an intriguing, eye-catching presence in the heart of the square.
This unique setup raises an interesting question: What kind of artwork does Forma hope to see in this space?
Antonia Shaw, Forma’s Head of Programmes, shared her perspective:
“Forma typically seeks to support artists at pivotal stages in their careers. That might be an emerging artist or one who is mid-career looking to take bigger risks and ready to experience a transition in their practice. The space at Bermondsey Square is the perfect platform for this as it offers 24/7 viewing to the public, expanding artist visibility whilst staying connected to our residency space and studios just five minutes down the road.”
Community at the Heart of Forma
Beyond its commitment to artists, Forma is deeply rooted in the local community. When asked about the role of community—especially in Bermondsey Square—Chris Rawcliffe was clear:
“Community is the most critical thing to us. We moved into Bermondsey five years ago, when we opened FormaHQ by Bricklayers Arms roundabout – a creative hub of artist’s studios, a residency space, bookshop, events space and beautiful garden oasis. We’ve spent the past five years embedding ourselves in Southwark. We’ve completed a lot of outreach from parties for residents to planting sessions. 15 Bermondsey Square was like winning the lottery, it’s another way to be involved in the borough.”
Forma sees the gallery as more than just an exhibition space; it’s a platform to encourage artists and the public to think differently. Whether sparking conversation, encouraging reflection, or shifting perspectives, Forma’s installations aim to bring thought-provoking vibrancy to BSQ.
Discover More
For those wanting to explore further, FormaHQ at 140 Dover Street is home to many artists-in-residence, with regular events and open studios. It’s well worth keeping an eye on for those eager to dive deeper into Forma’s world.