The venue at Monkton Arts, East Street, Ryde has announced a shake-up, with a short closure for refurbishment and creation of some enlarged new facilities.
The popular community art location is to expand operations across the street to the former Bert’s Motorcycles unit.
Monkton Arts co-owner Dawn Fidler explained,
“Survival has been a struggle for Monkton Arts, with the challenges of lockdown, followed by the serious flooding of 2023.
“But with determination, hard work, and continued support from our wonderful customers, local musicians, members of the local community and of course our Friends of Monkton Arts family we have prevailed.
“We now have exciting new plans for the future and expansion of Monkton Arts.
“We’re creating additional space for another gallery, new courses and art spaces to work in and sell from.”
Dawn went on to add,
“But this doesn’t mean the current venue will be shutting down. Far from it – in the existing building we’ll be expanding the kitchen, giving us a chance to offer a bigger menu.
“We will be working on both properties over Easter Week, when the cafe will be closed from Thursday 29th March until Wednesday 3rd April.”
Fundraising event
A fundraising event is being held at Monkton Arts on Friday 22nd March with all ticket proceeds going to help fund the refurbishment.
Local musicians and artists will be contributing, including Loren Thorn, Olivia Cure, Jim Thorn, Jon Thorne, Dave Packer, Nick Cane, Joe Thompson and Ben Sherwood.
Exhibition
There will be an exhibition in the cafe area showing the history of Monkton Arts – contributions are welcomed by 15th March.
These can be in the form of short written, photographic or artistic contributions.
Tickets are on sale now at the Monkton Arts website, where donations can also be made.
News shred by Matthew on behalf of Monkton Arts. Ed
