Jennifer Abessira’s surreal light boxes are part of the inaugural exhibition at the new Soho Revue gallery

Many Londoners (including me) have been feeling the unique spirit of Soho is under threat following the recent closure of iconic venues such as Madame JoJo’s and the 12 Bar Club and the destruction of many buildings for the Crossrail project. So it’s refreshing to see a new opening in Soho that isn’t a new branch of Starbucks or Nando’s.

The Soho Revue will be a showcase for contemporary art from emerging young artists

This week, I went along to the launch of Soho Revue, a new art gallery in Greek Street. Bringing some much needed creativity and culture into Soho’s dwindling stock of both, the space is a contemporary gallery which will aim to put the spotlight on young, emerging artists. The gallery is owned by India Rose James – the grand-daughter of Soho legend Paul Raymond.

The gallery has maintained the original neo-classical façade with the ‘St James’s & Soho Club – Estd 1864’ engraving back from when the building was a working men’s club. Despite the traditional exterior, the gallery’s interior is a total contrast with two white rooms, a perfect blank canvas for showcasing. The back room spans the equivalent of two storeys, with skylights adding light to the airy space and room for bigger installations. Currently the back room is displaying Wendy Bevan’s Slow Light on large sheets of silk suspended from the ceiling.

Currently running at the Soho Revue is the inaugural show ‘Nothing Perishes’, curated by Victoria Williams and Marine Tanguy. On display is a range of mediums, from young artists Bignon, Jennifer Abessira, Scarlett Bowman, Wendy Bevan, Maximilian Herbert, Walter Hugo & Zoniel. I particularly liked the pastel hues of Jennifer Abessira’s light boxes. As part of the exhibition, there will also be a three-screen cinematic installation Eleanor, by Alex Warren and Tobias Ross-Southall. Eleanor, which stars acclaimed actress Ruth Wilson, tells the story of three lonely women in London and is on show until May 12.

• Soho Revue, 14 Greek Street, Soho, W1D 4DP. Nearest station: Piccadilly Circus, Tottenham Court Road or Oxford Circus. For more information, visit the Soho Revue website.

For a guide to what else is on in London this month, click here.

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