Situated in the heart of Ventnor, Isle of Wight, Peer Studios has carved a distinctive niche for itself in the local artistic community.
A haven for creativity, this multifaceted gallery and co-working space offers artists the opportunity to not only display their artwork, but also to work in a vibrant, collaborative environment.
Fostering the growth of creativity
The brainchild of Francis, a former architectural professor, and Maya, an artist and graphic designer, Peer Studios is a Community Interest Company (CIC) that aims to foster the growth of local artistry.
By converting an ordinary space into an extraordinary melting pot of talent, the pair have succeeded in drawing the Island’s artistic attention.
The layout of Peer Studios maximises light and space, creating an environment conducive to the flourishing of creative ideas.
A vibrant cultural hub
In addition to serving as a gallery and co-working space, Peer Studios aims to become a vibrant cultural hub that will be offering a packed schedule of events.
In the upcoming months, the owners have curated a series of exhibitions, workshops, poetry readings and music concerts, further enriching the local artistic scene.
Inaugural jewellery exhibition
One of the most eagerly anticipated events on the roster is the inaugural jewellery exhibition on the Isle of Wight, ‘The Awakening’, organised by April Dixcey, resident jeweller at Peer Studios.
This landmark event, thought to be a first for the Island, is poised to draw an array of talent and promises to be an opportunity to view, between 29th May and 11th June, some of the most exquisite, handcrafted pieces of jewellery.
A top-secret exhibition will follow shortly after ‘The Awakening’, which sounds very exciting, but lips are sealed until the grand opening. More on that later.
Gallery space
For artists seeking to secure a foothold in the local art scene, Peer Studios offers the chance to rent wall space in the gallery for a modest £40 per month.
This initiative provides budding artists with a platform to showcase their work to a wider audience and immerse themselves in the artistic dialogue that Peer Studios encourages.
Not only that but Peer Studios take zero commission, so the artist retains 100 per cent of the sale price.
Co-working space
In the co-working realm, Peer Studios has one space currently available.
This offers a rare chance for artists to work alongside their peers in a conducive environment, and benefit from the collaborative exchanges and creative synergy that such a space inevitably generates.
Contact [email protected] to find out more.
Fostering a dynamic, inclusive and vibrant artistic community
Francis and Maya’s venture has cultivated a truly unique space in Ventnor, where artists can both produce and exhibit their work.
Peer Studios is a testament to their vision of fostering a dynamic, inclusive and vibrant artistic community on the Isle of Wight. As the gallery continues to thrive, it is clear that this venture is not only a boon for local artists, but also a significant cultural asset to Ventnor and the Isle of Wight.
Where to find them
Peer Studios is based at 29A Pier Street, Ventnor PO38 1SX.
They are generally open Wednesday to Saturday 10.30am to 4.30pm.
You can also follow them on Facebook and Instagram for updates.
