A packed opening night at the Old Town Hall in Sandown brings artists, neighbours and new energy together in the heart of The Bay.
“Friday 22nd May was a huge night for us at GRAFT. And honestly, we’re still buzzing from it.”
A building full of life
The building was full all evening. Artists, neighbours, old friends, new faces, supporters and curious passers-by. Every room seemed to have conversations happening in it.
People sharing memories of the building, talking about future ideas, peeking into studios, asking questions and reconnecting.
There was a real feeling of excitement and positivity throughout the night. Not just about GRAFT, but about seeing the Town Hall alive again.
Ribbon cut by the woman who made it happen
GRAFT is about celebrating those who work hard and in its meaning to join. GRAFT surprised Laura Cansdale the Town Regeneration Officer, with the honour of cutting the ribbon to mark the occasion.
The restoration of the Old Town Hall has been years in the making, made possible by her perseverance and commitment to The Bay Area.
Laura said,
“Being asked to cut the ribbon was a wonderful surprise.
“I was delighted to support Emma’s inspiring vision for these new art studios; her dedication to bringing this project to life has been fantastic. I look forward to seeing this building flourish into a vibrant, well used creative asset for the whole community.”
Studios, workshops and removing barriers to creativity
One of the best parts of the evening was seeing how many people had genuine enthusiasm for what’s beginning here, not just for the studios, but for the idea of creativity, community and activity returning to the building in a meaningful way.
Director, Gareth Rees, said,
“We had lots of interest in studio spaces and Associate Memberships, which was brilliant to see, but more than anything we just loved watching people enjoy being in the space.
“Alongside affordable studio space, we will be offering workshops, classes and opportunities centred around heritage craft, practical making skills, contemporary art and education.GRAFT is a Community Interest Company (CIC) and from the beginning our aim has been to create something that gives back. We are very aware that many people simply can’t afford access to creative opportunities.
“Our biggest aim is to subsidise places and remove barriers to those accessing heritage craft, creative skills and arts education.The support and encouragement we felt on opening night reminded us just how much people want to see that kind of opportunity exist here.”
The start of something
GRAFT share that there are far too many people to thank, but that this opening belonged to everyone who has helped look after the building over the years, who saved it for future use and who believed this place held something special for Sandown’s future.
It really feels like the start of something.
See the GRAFT Studios website for more information.
News hared by Emma on behalf of GRAFT Studios. Ed
