Woolwich At War

Local artists Lucia Colella and Stuart Lee have created a stunning new artwork called Keep the Peace inspired by Woolwich’s remarkable role in the war effort and explore what freedom means in today’s world. 

Keep the Peace is a large-scale triptych that traces a journey from war to peace, weaving together collective memory, personal histories, and community voices. Created by artists Lucia Colella and Stuart Lee, the piece reflects not only on the devastation of conflict but also on resilience, renewal, and the hope of a brighter future. 

The materials used to hold the artwork were taken and repurposed from the closing-down SET space in Woolwich, embodying a sense of transformation and rebirth. This act of reclamation further strengthens the work's themes of resilience and the power of renewal, linking the piece to both the local community and the history of the space. 

The work grew out of conversations with local veterans at the Veterans Coffee Morning in Plumstead, which inspired the artists to capture lived stories alongside broader historical narratives. Painted in a semi-abstract, expressionist style, the panels combine raw emotional intensity with symbolic references to music, place, and heritage. 

The exhibition also showcases a rare selection of items from the Greenwich archives, offering a unique chance to see historic documents, photographs and artefacts connected to Woolwich’s wartime past. These treasured pieces bring a tangible sense of history to the experience, connecting the past to the present.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, art lover, or curious local, this is an unmissable evening of discovery, creativity and reflection — a celebration of Woolwich’s enduring spirit and the continuing importance of freedom. Don’t miss it!

Attendees at the opening have said

"It was a privilege to be able to view the Greenwich Heritage Archive photographs of the damage done to the area, Lucia and Stuart's unveiling of the war depiction paintings and Rich's talk." 

"It is always valuable to see our local institutions keeping history alive and helping new generations to understand the sacrifices that were made."

 

"It was our first visit to Woolwich Library, and we were extremely impressed."

The exhibition is available to see without booking and is open to the public during library opening hours.
Monday 9am-7pm
Tuesday 9am-5.30pm
Wednesday 9am-5.30pm
Thursday 9am-7pm
Friday 9am-5.30pm
Saturday 9am-5pm
Sunday 12pm-4pm

The address of the library is: Woolwich Centre Library, 35 Wellington St, London SE18 6HQ

Full details can be found here.