Gimme Shelter: A night in conversation with Giles Deacon, Anthony Burrill and Juno Calypso

As charities devise novel ways to stir interest, rouse supporters and raise funds, the rise and rise of the moderated panel has become de rigueur. Last night, fashion designer and Creative Director Giles Deacon, performance artist and photographer Juno Calypso, and graphic and print artist Anthony Burrill spoke at the Oval Space, for Shelter’s Gimme Shelter evening, in talks spanning their careers as well as the impact of the housing crisis on the creative industry. Hosted by Raven Smith, the evening offered an opportunity to view the crisis not merely as a political hot potato, but through the prism of its uniquely devastating impact on creative artists, young and old.

Posited by Shelter as a chance for the trio to “discuss their work, using art for social change, creative industries in London and the impact of housing on emerging artists and their creativity”, Deacon, Calypso, and Burrill were able to chart their careers – from early assignments to success stories. Whether writing copy for the “worst hotel in the world”, being fired by Tom Ford (twice), or staging a shoot entirely within an LA-based nuclear bunker, the humble trio spoke openly, seemingly unaware of the expanse and intrigue of their starkly different works. Raven Smith, Creative Director, and former Commissioning Editor at Nowness, moderated the panel, interviewing each guest with characteristic wit and warmth, coaxing questions from a ribald Deacon and leveraging Calypso’s laconic charm to full effect.

Deacon has said “homelessness is such a significant issue in London and across the country and I’m excited to be working with other talented artists to raise awareness for a great cause”. His practice seems to reflect his social conscience, as he vocalised his support for sustainable practices, and revulsion at the industry’s trend of unpaid internships. Shelter’s evening was a warm success, boding well for the continued series, with a full turn-out testament to the appeal of its talent, and the worth of its cause.   

Jonathan Mahon-Heap
Photos: Shelter

Gimme Shelter took place at Oval Space London on 9^th October 2017. For further information about Shelter’s Art series and future events visit here.