A former astrophysicist is helping to showcase hidden talents at a Twickenham art gallery that promotes the work of people in the community.
George Dryja, 71, has joked about his ‘top down career trajectory’ from a scientist to gallery shop manager, called The People Hive, which he’s now overseen since February.
The space has grown from supporting 45 to more than 200 artists in seven years.
Dryja’s career switch marks a significant change from his time at Lucas Diesel Systems Ltd as an engine test manager, having previously acquired a degree from Queen Elizabeth College, University of London.
Samantha Fÿn, founder and CEO of The People Hive, had a vision of showcasing the community’s ability.
The gallery shop, which opened in 2018 after being launched by then-MP Vince Cable, provides free exhibition space for artists within seven miles of the venue, taking 30% commission on sales.
Dryja said: “We are totally transparent.
“You can be fully able-bodied, you can be fully disabled, you can be blind, you can have special needs. Your only prescription is you’ve got to be within 11 kilometres of this shop.”
Other than exhibition space, Friday evenings feature quiz nights open to both clients and the public, while Friday afternoons offer relaxed ‘chill and chat’ sessions.
Eric the dog, belonging to volunteer Ginny Sell, makes conditional appearances depending on clients’ comfort levels.
Artist Katherine Kermack, 30, spoke of the inclusive atmosphere.
She said: “It’s really lovely that it’s a community thing. It’s not snobby.
“Art can be very funny, you’re either a crafter or you’re an artist. And there’s never the in-between.”
For Dryja, who was ‘prescribed art on Wednesdays’ during his A-levels and maintains a passion for photography, the role represents a return to creative roots after being told during his previous career that he was ‘in the wrong job’.
The People Hive offers opportunity and safe space to build lasting confidence. One client, referred to as S.K., has evolved from participant to paid part-time staff member through mentoring.
Dryja said: “That gives her an incredible amount of self-worth.”
As the charity aims for expansion following their October refurbishment – which briefly worried the community about losing their space – Dryja emphasises their authentic approach.
He said: “We are not going into tokenism. It is about really trying to provide a true opportunity and dealing with people in a realistic way, not platitudes.”
For The People Hive’s team and the community it serves, value also lies in providing visibility and worth to often-overlooked talents.
The charity is arguably filling a crucial gap in support as Richmond upon Thames Council faces mounting pressure over SEND funding.
Dryja is particularly critical of cuts to disability services, arguing they are counter-productive.
He said: “What we’re doing is basically putting those children onto the rubbish heap because we’re saying that we don’t value them. The area of funding for children with disabilities is critical when children are in their formative years.
“People with learning difficulties may be the hidden disabled.
“They need an organisation like the People Hive to enable them to talk to each other, to create normal social circumstances.”
If councils across England struggle with rising costs that outstrip government funding, it may exacerbate the postcode lottery for families.
The Government’s SEND reform proposals are expected to be formally published later this year.
Richmond upon Thames Council was contacted for comment but declined to respond.
Feature image credit: Dan Dury