Writer Tim Burrows, who sets the scene for the recently published Radical ESSEX by authoring the introduction will in conversation with Hayley Dixon, c0-editor of Radical ESSEX and Interim Director at Focal Point Gallery, as part of Barking and Dagenham’s Readfest.

Tim’s chapter speaks of how Essex, trapped between the city and the longest coastline in England, became a form of an escape, a testing ground for experimental ways of living, and a place where new artistic practices could develop and thrive. Examples include include Tolstoyan communes, the anarchist-pacifist open house Dial House, founded by members of the punk band Crass, and the religious retreat of Othona Community. Siting on the London-Essex border, simultaneously part of both, Barking and Dagenham is a gateway to the county, this talk will delve further into the role the borough plays as a hinterland to the unknown.

This event takes place at Dagenham Library, is free, and all are welcome. Please book your place here