A group will come together to open United Practice’s Summer Event during the summer solstice, from 4pm on Tuesday 21st June in the Middlesex Filter Beds Nature Reserve, London. Located near the River Lea within Hackney Marshes amongst the fairies, the concrete circle covered in grass marks the spot. At this meeting point, the former industrial area turned wildlife haven, will transform into an ancient sundial, acting as our mystic compass. Join us here, as the earth tilts towards the sun, on a hopefully sun-filled day with blue sky. If there are clouds and glitter-like raindrops—that are not moved by wind or followed by rainbows—the location will adapt according to the elements. All are welcome to the festivity and ritual, which will celebrate the coming together, and reflect on the happenings leading up to the longest day of the year.
This first event is one of many that will take place between the summer solstice and equinox. Summer, the period during this solar transition in the northern hemisphere, often signals a distinctive break. Time away is sought after, due to this time lying between the institutional framework followed by schools and universities, and, due to this planetary positioning, it is often warmer. As a collective and as individuals we (
@carlosromomelgar ,
@gabrielam_m ,
@johnphilipsage ,
@kleevans , and myself) use this space to organise the events as propositions for forms of cooperation. We invite you to take part, as we and others continue to manifest, heal, sparkle, rest, reflect, discuss, move through, and sit with things that are informing our practice as beings (first) and designers (second).
The Summer Event is an annual series of activities, coordinated by United Practice, a studio space and support structure in Bermondsey, shared by Open Practice, V–RM and Spreeeng. For further information and updates on the growing program visit summer-event-2022.common.garden. If you would like to participate by running an event please get in touch, we are open to many perspectives and possibilities. Some of last year’s events included; workshops, poetry readings, hotlines, group discussions, and talks.
