Minesweeper Collective Co-operative Future

Minesweeper Collective is an arts oriented Co-operative based in Deptford/Greenwich SE London which, on 5th January 2017 lost all of it's assets, equipment, studios, masses of artwork and most importantly their registered base due to a fortunately victimless fire accident involving a woodburner malfunction onboard their residencial vessel, a double floored 110 ft decommisioned Ham Class Minesweeper - HMS Ledsham, moored in Deptford Creek. The cultural value and character of this boat was indescribable.

It has been on the mooring permanently since being salvaged in 1997 and has been lovingly rennovated by core and evolving crew and art groups ever since.

The ship had been used as a printmaking studio, workshop space, performance and music rehearsal space and private venue for local events and meetings, as well a longstanding institution for the varying arts, performance and music scenes of the local area and far beyond. She had created a vibrant and varied network during over the last two decades. Thousands have benefitted and enjoyed her due to the continual community nature of the space and connection with local groups and venues throughout London as well as nationally and internationally from her hidden corner of the creek.

Due to her sudden loss, we are raising this money to try and replace the co-op's many hard earned and donated assets - mainly professional printing, stage and music studio equipment and instruments. Ultimately a new studio base is needed locally, and soon. If this is final stage is unattainable then support for the Minesweeper Collective's Gallery 'Undercurrents Gallery' at local music stronghold The Birds Nest would be our main aim to keep them working in our community.

We hope to raise as much as possible to have as many options as possible for this progressive co-operative team to go forward. It has been an integral part of the London underground arts world, which will be greatly affected by the vessel's sudden, sad and untimely end.

You know and we know, places to create and experiment are continually hard to come by. To pursue creativity is becoming less feasable. London needs more spaces for the arts and venues to flourish culture for the future. Our city is famous for it. People yearn for it. Art Is Important, so please donate!

Lets hope these donations can help this unique and much loved co-op bounce back even stronger than it was before.

Thank for any donations possible and please share to all those who you feel would wish to support.