The sun rose over London in October 2004. The doors of rampART were opened to over 50 visitors from across Europe. The atmosphere was electric, filled with laughter, and conversations. Long tables were set up, laden with delicious free food—fragrant stews, fresh bread, and vibrant salads—inviting everyone to sit together and cheer.
Many people were deep in discussion about social justice issues. Others participated in creative workshops, making art that expressed their hopes and dreams for a better world.
It was just one out of many events that used to be held in the imposing walls of rampART. RampART was a self-managed social space located in the Whitechapel area of East London. Established in 2004 in a previously derelict building, this self-managed space quickly became a hub for artists, activists, and community members from all walks of life.
This collective effort was driven by volunteers who managed the space without any external funding, making up a do-it-yourself (DIY) culture and consensus decision-making. At rampART, everyone was welcome, and it fostered a strong sense of community.
The area around rampART, Whitechapel, was a vibrant mix of cultures and communities all coming together. But at the same time, you could really feel the pressure of gentrification pushing in. It was a place where diversity thrived, but there were also challenges as new developments started to change the neighborhood.
As property prices started to climb and new buildings popped up all around, many long-time residents found themselves being pushed out of their homes. The very essence of what makes rampART special—the diversity and warmth—threatens to be replaced by high-end shops and luxury apartments that cater to a different crowd. It was a tough time for the community, but that’s where rampART really shone. It became a beacon of hope and inclusion, offering a safe haven for those whose voices often went unheard.
Many locals express their concerns about losing their homes and the community they cherish. They reminisce about how things used to be—when they could afford to live comfortably in the neighborhood they loved. The fear of displacement hangs heavy in the air, as familiar faces begin to vanish and beloved local businesses close their doors.
In response to these pressures, the community has come together with determination. They organize meetings, advocate for affordable housing, and support local artists and entrepreneurs. This collective action is not just about resisting change; it's about preserving the rich cultural heritage that defines rampART.
During my time at rampART in the early 2000s, I noticed how it connected with other important spaces like the London Action Resource Centre (LARC) and the hacklab. LARC was a vital resource for activists, offering support and information for various causes. Meanwhile, the hacklab was a place where people could learn about technology and digital skills. It was to empower activists with the tools they needed to make a difference.
It was a place where we could stand together against social injustices and support one another in our fight for change. I personally experienced the creative and politically active mood of rampART during those years. The energy in the space was inspiring, filled with passionate discussions and collaborative projects that aimed to create a better future for everyone.
In 2009, the vibrant community at rampART faced a heartbreaking moment when local authorities and police evicted the beloved social space. On the morning of October 15, at around 5:30 AM, a large force of 45 police officers, accompanied by bailiffs and even a Church of England vicar, arrived to carry out the eviction. They used chainsaws to break down the doors and climbers accessed the building from the roof, creating a scene that many who had gathered would never forget.
Despite the community's strong resistance and efforts to protect the space they had built over five and a half years, legal and political pressures made the closure inevitable. The eviction marked the end of an era for rampART.
Yet, even in its absence, the spirit of rampART lives on. I’ve completed writing a book that brings us back to the era of rampART. If you have ever been a part of rampART—whether you attended an event, participated in a workshop, or simply enjoyed the atmosphere—I would love to hear from you!
Your memories and reflections could really enrich this project and help capture the true spirit of rampART. Your stories are important, and together we can celebrate the legacy of this unique community space. Let’s keep the spirit of rampART alive through our shared experiences!
Official website of rampART: https://therampart.wordpress.com/
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