There’s a plethora of fantastic art in and around Tooting. Here, Arting About’s Rachel Husband takes us through some of her favourites.

If you know and love Tooting, then you must remember the huge media storm earlier in the year, when Lonely Planet wrote that Tooting was one of the top 10 coolest neighbourhoods in the world. One of the reasons I love Tooting is for its creative arts and culture, and the more I delve into it, the more I find...
 

Sprout Community Arts
Sprout is a not-for-profit, volunteer-run gallery space in Furzedown. They hold regular exhibitions showcasing local artists, host community events, and run workshops and art classes. Their passionate team of artist-led volunteers provide a supportive and creative environment for all. Definitely worth the trip up that hill!
Sprout Arts, 74 Moyser Rd, London SW16 6SQ​

Love Art
Love Art is run by two creative power houses, Gemma and Claire, who have created a tiny oasis of inspiration and colour in the heart of Tooting Market. They run weekly art classes for children, occasional adult workshops and they stock a superbly curated range of cards, books, prints and homewares from a growing collection of independent and often local artists including Jane Foster, South London Club, Flying Eye Books, Paul McBride, and many more.
Unit 24b, Tooting Market, 21-23 Tooting High St, SW17 0SN

Daniel Smith
Daniel is the talented designer and artist behind Designed By Dan. Originally from Colchester, he now lives in Tooting, and has recently launched a new range of Tooting inspired homewares, including mugs, tea towels and prints.

Amanda Blunden
Amanda is the artist behind Sweet Toots Design. Living and working in Furzedown, her work has always been inspired by folk art symbols, nature and the natural world. Using digital media, pastel, charcoal, collage and monoprint, Amanda regularly shows her work at craft fairs and markets, and sells through galleries, interior design shops and art outlets across London and the UK.
 

The Salacious Sirens
The Salacious Sirens are a ‘funny, feisty and versatile’ group of burlesque performers who put on weekly burlesque themed life drawing classes at The Antelope on Mitcham Road. All are welcome. £12 a session. 
Every Thursday 8.30pm-10.30pm. Includes burlesque show.

Love2Sketch
Love2Sketch run a weekly nude/burlesque life drawing group at The Selkirk Pub for anyone in search of a new creative outlet. It’s a friendly group and all levels are welcome. From artists who want to develop their portfolio through to beginners who just want to try something different and have some fun. 
Every Tuesday 7.30–9.30pm, The Selkirk Pub, on Selkirk Road.