Interim Spaces is now home to 15 artists Picture: Interim Spaces

New art hub breathes life into empty Shepton Mallet offices

Tait ap EllisOctober 14, 20240 Comment0

AN empty office block in the middle of Shepton Mallet has been turned into the town’s first dedicated artist studio facility.

Commercial Road Studios, found at 19 Commercial Road, now houses 15 artists from around the local area.

The 24/7 studios are available for artists from just £1 per square foot a month, including all bills.

Interim Spaces, a charity that transforms otherwise empty commercial properties into cultural venues and workspaces, first approached Somerset Council in 2023 to transform the former Registry Office for Births, Deaths, and Marriages into a hub of creativity.

The building, closed since 2017 (except for a brief reopening in 2020 as a Covid walk-in centre), is now home to 15 artists and makers from Shepton Mallet and surrounding towns.

Due to its popularity, demand has extended as far afield as Frome and Bristol.

Dan Simon, director of Interim Spaces, said: “We are truly delighted to boost the local artist scene in Shepton Mallet with these new studios, where artists can work together, innovate, and grow.

“Somerset Council understands the urgent need to create cultural opportunities here, and by granting us use of the former office block, we are unlocking potential for many local artists and designers who were previously working from home.

“We are excited to see how these studios catalyse more culture in our wonderful town.”

Jack Greenwood, artist at Commercial Road Studios, said: “Commercial Road Studios has been an incredible opportunity for me.

“Having access to a local, affordable studio in Shepton Mallet is something I never dreamed would happen and has already benefited me hugely.

“I’ve been able to get more visibility for my work through studio visits, offer art lessons, and it’s been great for my mental health and confidence as an artist to be out of the house and working in a dedicated space.

“It’s invaluable to be part of a thriving art community. It has given my art career a boost and a new direction, and I think it’s a great thing for Shepton Mallet as a whole.”

Councillor Federica Smith-Roberts, lead member for communities and culture at Somerset Council, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to support this venture which aligns so well with our cultural priorities – celebrating Somerset, supporting our economy, and connecting our communities through accessible art and culture.

“Our collaboration with Interim Spaces is a wonderful example of how working with partners can enhance what already exists, enriching our lives by recognising the impact and benefits of culture, while fostering a sense of economic prosperity and pride.”

The new tenants include:

Tasha Angell, Metalsmith @tashaangelljewellery
Alexandra Drysdale, Artist @alexandra_drysdale
Jake Cook, Graphic Designer @cookin.pixels
Jack Greenwood, Artist @jackgreenwoodart
Lucia Harley, Artist @lucia.harley8
Jason Nosworthy, Artist @jpnfineart
Amalia Page, Jeweller @apageofsilver
Jessica and Nova Mattock, Artists @jessicamallock
Miriam Sheppard, Artist @miriamsheppard
Katrina and MacKenzie Sheldon, Jewellers @katrilee_
Caroline Slater, Artist @carofineart
Emily Stephens, Textile and Seamstress @darngoodstuff
Lowri Whiskerd, Artist @lowriwhiskerd.studio

Interim Spaces is one of the UK’s leading providers of affordable, flexible, and sustainable work and development space and it recently launched a successful retail incubator in Shepton Mallet at 10 Market Place.