Clink Street ‘88

Through the summer of 1988, in a basement in Clink Street, an unlikely series of Acid House raves and parties changed the face of youth culture in the UK. Taking place beneath the then derelict Soho Wharf, only a few meters back from the Thames foreshore, the series of “RIP Parties” were the birth place of Acid House music in Britain and for many it was the first time they had heard this music.

Clink Street ‘88 is a project whose aim is to celebrate this important cultural event. Responding to this rare example of euphoria, and in recognition that the spontaneous and unplanned can sometimes lead to remarkable things, this series seeks to reflect on the experiences ravers had, and how momentarily the urban landscape of this secluded part of London changed from a disused wasteland into a pleasure-ground of music and joy.

The summer of 1988 was often referred to as “the second summer of love” – raves across London brought people together from all walks of life in a type of cerebration that hadn’t been seen before. These events in Clink Street have been overlooked from mainstream historical research and their significance deserves recognition.

The limited edition ceramic pieces in this series are designed and made by studio potter James Sims. They are hand thrown from Staffordshire Stoneware clay and use bold joyful colours and geometric shapes. Discovered through archival research, a series of ceramic transfers are used to share memories and experiences.

Warehouse Wasteland, 2023

Staffordshire Stoneware clay, sunshine glaze, ceramic in-glaze transfers

Edition of only 10. Each piece is numbered and signed.