By: Bernard Clarke, 03 August 2023

Our project to open an arts centre in Guisborough. 

When we first floated the idea of an arts centre we were very pleased to receive such positive responses. It seems we identified a desire in Guisborough to create a space for both visual and peforming arts.

What is particulaly pleasing is the number of local artists who have stepped up to help with the project. We are building a strong project team. There is an open invite for anyone who wants to help shape this project to get involved. You can reach us at contact@guisra.org.uk or via our contact form. We are still at an early stage but are seeing rapid progress.

Also it has been very encouraging to see many organisations with experience in this field have been willing to provide support. We are meeting with those experienced in this field which is providing us with invaluable support in achieving a wonderful public asset.

Our Aims

Long term we aim to have:

• a performance space
• gallery, studios for artists at a reduced rate
• maker spaces
• shop
• cafe
• sponsorship from local businesses for commissions and residencies
• established sources of funding so that we can provide security and make some of the roles professional rather than voluntary

Short term we want to build up engagement with groups within our community and start doing what we can straight away – which may well be borrowed gallery space in empty shopfronts, running mobile maker spaces from a minibus with donated or found materials… building up knowledge and gathering expertise around us to agree a vision, specific aims and a business plan to get there.

We are talking with local artists about maybe a non-hierarchical arts collective to be the heart and soul of the adventure, and a more formal Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) with trustees, bank account etc to act as protective armour around the heart. By the time you have read this much more will have happened. We will keep you up to date as progress is made.

And don’t forget – if you would like to be involved please do get in touch.