Squat sophisticates

Aucklander Dan Simon, 31, and his art collective ‘The Oubliette’ have been squatting in two 15 million pound mansions in the exclusive suburb of Mayfair, London, transforming the six-story buildings into a cultural centre for emerging artists. The squatters broke into the plush building – and the one next door – over a month ago, though they kept it quiet until very recently when they announced 10 days of events to promote their collective. ‘The Oubliette’ wants to “raise awareness of the art project, recruit new members and find new talent”. Simon said the former Mexican embassy was only an “interim base” to get the collective set up while they look for a permanent space where burgeoning artists “are not only creating and showcasing their work, but also meeting each other, networking.” “London is one of the most expensive places to live in the world,” Simon said. “We’re not just squatters looking for a life in a 15m property. We’re here with a serious purpose.” Simon emigrated to the UK when he was 21.