We all think that we are free to move about the metropolis at will, but there are often small elements of infrastructure that can become giant barriers to accessibility. And so it turns out, that the humble loo holds the key to the city. London was once proud of its grand vision for sanitation, but we seem to have abandoned the legacy laid down by our Victorian forebears, reinstating a urinary leash upon the general public. Never was this more apparent than during the lockdown when it became impossible to duck into a cafe or pub when needed.

'The Toilet' is just one element contained within the Garden of Privatised Delights, an exhibition commissioned by the British Council and curated by Manijeh Verghese and Madeleine Kessler, which has travelled from Venice to London. Within it they seek to explore different forms of privatised public space, such as the high street, pubs, garden squares and more. Many of these spaces can also be seen to be united by their lack of WC provision, however, what does that mean for the people who wish to use them? How does it further entrench disparities between rich and poor, or negatively effect different communities?

We will explore this thorny topic and its wider ramifications on how we use the city in the modern era by gathering around the dining table to break bread and talk toilets.

Featuring:

Siân Berry, Green Party Nick Searl, Argent
Dr Jos Boys, Bartlett School of Architecture
Mark Freeman, Architectural Designer
Manijeh Verghese, Co-Curator The Garden of Privatised Delights
Madeleine Kessler, Co-Curator The Garden of Privatised Delights

amongst others….

On the night….