Following the success of the Window Works project Harlow Renaissance, Essex County Council and Harlow Council undertook a pilot project under the Essex County Council Slack Space initiative to provide much needed studio provision for local artists.
Following the completion of a feasibility study a successful bid for funding was submitted to Arts Council England. With additional funding from Harlow Renaissance, Essex County Council and Harlow Council ACAVA (a London-based studio provider) was commissioned to oversee the renovation of empty retail space and manage the studios once up and running.
Work began in April 2010 to create 23 artists studios as well as a gallery and community space that could be used for exhibitions and workshops.
By September 2010 work was complete and Gatehouse Studios and Gallery had attracted artists from across the region. 24 artists are now resident and have the space to develop their own work as well as undertaking educational and community engagement roles.
The Studios were open to the public as part of the “Heritage Open Days” on 11 September 2010 where visitors could meet the artists and see them at work in their studios.