Hijack Reality

Deptford X wanted to produce a book to celebrate their tenth anniversary. With a small budget but a fantastic story to tell, I pulled together a tight team and co-published this spirited little book with them which was distributed by Thames & Hudson.

Deptford X is honourable, healthy and fun; a totally non-damaging way of having art and creativity in the community. The past decade has seen a massive growth in arts festivals, to the point where almost no city would be without one – yet few have had the impact of Deptford X. Many of the hottest names in the contemporary art world have been drawn to its unique atmosphere.

Now celebrating its tenth anniversary, this book takes a look at the festival’s achievements so far, as well as its role in the redevelopment of this vibrant corner of Southeast London. After an introduction by the renowned critic Matthew Collings, in which he casts an eye over the area and its history, your guide to the wonderful world of art festivals is acclaimed artist Bob and Roberta Smith. His insightful and frequently amusing observations have been arranged into a 23-point manifesto of how to — and how not to — organise your own festival.