30 March 2010
Sixteen affordable artists’ studios and a new community arts space in the heart of Harlow have been announced, which will make use of empty shop premises in the town centre.
Gatehouse Studios and Gallery, a partnership project between Essex County Council, Harlow Renaissance and Harlow Council is an exciting creative development for Harlow.
The project will provide studio space for artists and support their professional development, as well as reversing the loss of creative talent and supporting the cultural and economic development of the region.
It will breathe life into the northern section of the town centre by encouraging shoppers and visitors to attend open studio events, workshops and gallery shows. The community space and gallery will also provide opportunities for Harlow residents to enjoy workshops and exhibitions.
It is hoped that these new spaces, along with Parndon Mill Gallery and Studios and the town’s sculpture collection at The Gibberd Gallery and Gardens, will make Harlow an exciting cultural destination and attract new audiences to the area.
Shop conversions start in April and the new spaces will be officially launched in September 2010.
Media are invited to attend an Artist Open Day on 27th April 19 Gatehouse, West Gate, Harlow 4.00pm – 6.30pm, where artists can look at where the studios will be housed and explore further opportunities to get involved with the project. Artists who would like to attend this event are asked to email Lindsey.strange@essex.gov.uk to reserve a place.
County Councillor Jeremy Lucas, Cabinet Member for Heritage, Culture and the Arts said:
“This is a very exciting initiative that will greatly enhance Harlow’s thriving cultural scene. I’d urge any interested artists to come along to our open day to see the range of exciting opportunities we are offering.”
Andrew Bramidge, Chief Executive, Harlow Renaissance commented:
" Harlow Renaissance has been keen to support this development of studio space as a complement to the wider regeneration of the town centre. We have planted new trees, installed art work in empty shop windows and the addition of this gallery and studio space will increase the vibrancy of Harlow Town Centre. All this provides support to the town centre in challenging economic conditions and in advance of the implementation of major re-development proposals in the next few years. We look forward to the studios opening in September of this year."