We Don’t Need Culture project launches at Somerstown Central

An event at Somerstown Central Hub has seen the launch of We Don’t Need Culture, a project by local artist Karl Rudziak which aims to re-evaluate the word ‘culture’.

The project launch coincided with an exhibition which celebrated the culmination of 12 months of portrait work by Karl, who has worked closely with members of the Somerstown community to produce a series of oil paintings and sketches.

Karl has recently secured funding from Arts Council England to support the project for another year, enabling him to add more subjects and further develop the project.

The idea for We Don’t Need Culture was sparked by a conversation in Karl’s local pub — raising awareness of the meaning of the word ‘culture’ amongst people who don’t necessarily perceive themselves as cultural, and demonstrating that culture permeates all areas of a community.

Jo Bennett, Portsmouth City Council’s Commercial Property and Leasehold Services Manager, said: “I’m delighted that we were able to support Karl with this important project by hosting the launch event at Somerstown Central Hub. Karl has a natural talent for putting people at their ease and bringing out the best in their characters, which is really evident from these portraits.

“As a result, Karl has formed some strong working relationships with local residents who regularly visit the centre. The Hub is the perfect location for the exhibition and the project is achieving a positive outcome for the Somerstown community.”