Now, despite ocassional forays into the area, we've seen little real evidence to support this view, although some positive recent experiences are giving cause for a re-think.

At Camberwell's Red Gate Gallery until Thursday is a unique painting and photographic collaboration between emerging local talent, Annie Welford and North London's photographer and record producer Andrew Bird. Welford's powerful figurative images focus upon her search for the universal element of the feminine whilst Bird's gothic photographic style delivers strong dynamic lighting and a sense of deep stillness.

Meanwhile, just around the corner Peckham Road's South London Gallery (SLG) is preparing for next week's solo exhibition of globally acclaimed sculptor Eva Rothschild. Using leather, wood, perspex and surprising objects such as incense sticks and used tyres in her work , Rothschild constantly challenges the aesthetics of art, particularly minimalism.