Occupying a building dating from 1690, Raven Row (named after the street’s historical name) is an artifact in itself, even without considering the art adorning its walls. The building’s extensive history as a shooting range, later as Europe’s largest hospital, a posh retail outlet and finally a working class residency, has laid the groundwork for this boundary-busting art space.

As a non-profit organization, Raven Row focuses on exploring and exhibiting engaged contemporary art, disregarding financial gain. Seeking to determine art’s stature outside of the commercial sector, the space exhibits established, international artists alongside artists whose work is often overlooked in the highly commercial London art scene.

Opening its doors in February 2009, the inaugural exhibition displayed the works of the enigmatic artist, Ray Johnson. Additionally, Raven Road offers residencies for visiting artists and curators, funded by the gallery’s director and British supermarket heir, Alex Sainsbury.