newsgathers

London, a city renowned for its historical landmarks and cultural institutions, also harbors a fascinating secret: the 'House of Dreams.' Nestled in Dulwich, this unconventional museum is the brainchild of artist Stephen Wright, who has meticulously transformed his semi-detached residence into an immersive art environment. Far from a conventional tourist spot, this site serves as both a museum and a deeply personal reflection of the artist's life, inviting visitors into a world crafted from countless recycled objects.

Stephen Wright, a textile designer by trade, embarked on this extraordinary project after being inspired by a television program featuring Outsider artists – individuals who create art driven by an intrinsic compulsion rather than formal training. Moving to London in the 1980s, Wright acquired the house in Dulwich, which would later become his canvas. His journey to transform the house into a living artwork began in 1999, sparked by a pivotal moment watching 'Journeys Into the Outside' with his partner, Donald. This shared inspiration led them to visit similar visionary environments in France, solidifying Wright's resolve to create his own.

The creative endeavor paused following the passing of Donald in 2005, and shortly thereafter, Wright's parents. However, after a period of hiatus, Wright resumed his work, expanding the project from a single room to encompass every surface and corner of his home. Over 25 years, the house has accumulated an astonishing collection of mosaics, sculptures, paintings, and collages, all intricately fashioned from thousands of discarded items. These include personal effects from his parents, such as old bicycle parts and handwritten notes, alongside objects sourced from flea markets and car boot sales, interspersed with Wright's original artworks.

The 'House of Dreams' is not merely a display of objects; it is a tangible diary, with each recycled piece contributing to a narrative of memories and aspirations. Visitors are greeted by a vibrant spectacle from the moment they approach the blue wooden gate. The front patio, adorned with tinsel, dolls, plastic beads, and Tibetan prayer flags, sets the tone for the kaleidoscopic experience within. Mosaics crafted from broken tiles, ceramic mug handles, bleach bottles, and even false teeth—once belonging to Wright's parents—cover every available surface, inviting close inspection.

Inside, the entrance hall explodes with color and form. Sculptures and mosaics, composed of an eclectic mix of everyday items like bottle tops, beads, old tins, plastic clocks, and shoe molds, demonstrate Wright's ingenious repurposing. As the house gained recognition, donations of unique items, including a deer skull, further enriched its ever-growing collection. The living room, a treasure trove of curiosities, houses a giant chest with tiny drawers that enchant visitors, revealing antique teeth molds and vintage reading glasses sourced from Parisian flea markets. The back garden, too, is a highlight, with its sun-drenched mosaics and sculptures creating a serene yet vibrant outdoor gallery.

Perhaps the most poignant elements are Stephen's handwritten memory boards—white square tiles scattered throughout the house, inscribed with his personal thoughts and reflections. Phrases like “You can go back but you can’t go home, it isn’t there anymore” and “I am a world citizen, not a little Englander” offer glimpses into his philosophical outlook. Unlike traditional museums with structured paths, the 'House of Dreams' encourages visitors to explore freely, allowing for a deeply personal and reflective experience. This unique blend of art, memoir, and found objects makes the 'House of Dreams' a profoundly moving and wonderfully eccentric destination, transcending the conventional boundaries of an art exhibit.