Christopher
Riggio

Which place do you currently call home and where do you work on your projects?

I live in East Dulwich, a region in South East London. I am just off a flourishing high street with a bountiful run of family shops. I am very fortunate to be here and only 10 minute from my ceramic studio. The studio is located in Camberwell in a historic mews called Vanguard Court, here in South East London.

Do you have a favourite place in your area where you like to relax and linger?

I am happy to say that I can relate my studio life with relaxation. I often work in the studio very late into the evening. There are no distractions or interruptions at night. During the day I often set off for one of the many London parks to enjoy lunch or to frequent one of the many museums around. I would say that the Horniman Museum in Forest Hill, London is my usual spot. Their displays and architecture, views and gardens are unmatched. It is a pretty sensational place. London is a pretty hectic place, although It is fairly easy to commute to Brighton along the coast for a day of tranquility.

Are there any urgent political issues or problems in your region?

I am originally from Montreal, Canada. In some ways I am escaping smaller regional political issues such as overbearing language laws and substituting them for real and global political issues here in the UK. There is a certain gravitas from living in a highly concentrated area of people and having the EU on our doorstep. With the diversity and history of this area where I have settled – it is simply impossible to evade politics. The cost of living crisis is a concern for most here and a lack of leadership in recent years has shown little empathy for the wider population. In the meanwhile, the many global conflicts linger in our thoughts. The acute problems in London seem unimportant in comparison although I fear for people and their needs here nonetheless.

In your opinion, what has developed well in the last 5 years – and what has not?

In spite of inflation pressures – the large cultural institutions such as museums remain free and open to accommodate the public. There also seems to be a positive push towards government help towards the cost of childcare in recent years. Since the pandemic – there seems to be a work from home model which has remained and suited a decent percentage of the population. In contempt of these positive developments however there is a constant worry that the health services here will grind to a halt in this country or even become completely privatised and therefor unaffordable for most. The other major turn for the worse is the lack of accommodation and the high cost of renting for the general population. It is becoming increasingly difficult to find an affordable room or flat within reasonable reach of one’s workplace. I hope the situation will subside but it only seems to get worse. Most are being pushed further away from the city centres and these more distant places are also at their utmost limit.

Do you know a hidden gem when it comes to local manufacturers – whether it’s arts and crafts, sustainable products or food?

There is a local manufacturer I can’t quite believe still exists in London. They are a longstanding snooker cue manufacturer called Parris Cues. You can peer through their windows and watch a multitude of high powered lathes spinning beautiful wood. It may be unimaginable, but it feels as though the industrial revolution is happening before one’s eyes. There are many studios still in London – and most have open days. It is worth having a look online at the various studio organisations. (Dulwich Festival, Camberwell arts festival, Cockpit arts, V22 – to name a few). I am slightly biased of course but I would recommend the end of year shows at the Royal College of Art.

Is there anything particularly innovative in your region? Also in comparison to other places you have already visited?

There seems to be a bit of a lull since the pandemic. Businesses closing and studios closing etc. I have a hope a hope that entrepreneurs are still developing and fighting for new trends and ideas. There are young students both British and international at the forefront of innovation. Due to the popularity and competitiveness of the universities in London – wonderful and brilliant ideas are generated at speed.

One may develop freely and with confidence here – It is a melting pot which surely fuels innovation globally. There are a lot of big players and supporters here – I suppose it has always been that way. Things can happen here without a doubt.

Do you have a secret restaurant tip that you would like to share with us?

My favourite restaurant in London is a Kurdish restaurant called Yadas. It is definitely off the charts in many ways. It hosts a very relaxed setting with fragrant food which is affordable and reminiscent of quality home cooking. The aromas are deep and the many options are all distinctive. I can’t recommend it enough, it is a hidden gem you can easily miss.

Is there a local shop whose products are only available in your region?

There are two particular stationary stores which come to mind. Choosing Keeping in Covent Garden and Present & Correct near the British Museum. They both off unique stationary and gift products of a high quality and both possess a unique and genuine aesthetic. The shop Japan House in Kensington is another shop to mention which is the most unique shop offering Japanese handicraft and bespoke food choices.

What are your 3 favourite apps that you use every day and couldn’t live without?

– Citymapper (transportation maps)
– BBC sounds
– Guardian news

Do you have any favourite newspapers or online magazines? And how do you keep up to date with politics or social and cultural issues?

I actually read various sources of mainstream media to allow for a wide perspective of global issues – I also look at the very regional papers such as southwark news or the local forums to find out what is happening on my doorstep. It is obligatory for me to touch base with my surroundings but also with home – for that reason I read Montreal Gazette for sentimental reasons. I will never have a holistic view of everything but feel informed nevertheless.

Imagine you could be mayor for a year – what would you change?

The first thing that comes to mind is creating a social system which is tiered depending on earnings and welfare status. I would implement a colour classification which is confidential but can be disclosed to enable appropriate cost deductions according to one’s colour status. I also feel impoverished, child bearing women should not be paying for transportation costs. If I was mayor – childcare would be possible for those in need and more support would be considered for those with mental health problems and I would advocate strongly for the youngest generations susceptible to the dangers which exists including social media. I would be also for a mentoring platform for those who have been successful to offer advice regularly to those in need of guidance with regards to their career and future planning. The other important implementation would be rent control regulations and a system that would allow for diversity and stability. Lastly, free or subsidised education for all would be top on my list.

One last question: If you could choose another place to live – regardless of financial or time constrains – which one would you choose?

I would love to settle eventually in Prague. As my wife is Czech it has become a home from home. It is so pleasant there and the society is buzzing in all directions. It is a place full of culture and beauty of course but also it is a place which is penetrable and fresh. It has so much potential. I think lately people have already been seduced by the idea. In no time at all it will flourish beyond expectations.