New gallery in Bishop's castle SpArC

3:27pm Saturday 12th July 2008

A NEW gallery for wall mounted exhibitions of work from local artists has recently been completed at the SpArC centre in Bishop's Castle, providing over 33 square metres of exhibition space.

A series of large wall-mounted panels with overhead lighting have been provided in an architect-designed long gallery setting as well as in the foyer of the SpArC theatre. The gallery also benefits from a large amount of natural light through the clever use of angled windows.

The design allows work to be mirror plated and securely mounted or hung from a top hook, depending on the specific needs of each piece.

The exhibition space has been provided through the efforts of the charity Castle Community Leisure, whose volunteers aim to support cultural activities in south west Shropshire.

With the co-operation of South Shropshire District Council and grants from the South Shropshire Community Buildings Fund and Advantage West Midlands, the charity has provided a facility that can be used free of charge by local artists to showcase their work, with commission charged only if sales are made.

"We are aware that there are many wonderful artists living and working in the area yet it is difficult to find attractive, well lit spaces locally where they can exhibit their work," says Ian Kerry, treasurer of Castle Community Leisure.

"An advantage of the SpArC venue is that, in addition to the panelled walls, there is space that can be hired where free-standing exhibitions can be set up as well as facilities to enable exhibition previews to be catered for.

"Because SpArC is a sports and theatre venue it is also used by lots of people who wouldn't necessarily visit an art exhibition."

Castle Community Leisure wants to hear from artists or groups who would like to exhibit. Anyone interested can call Anne-Marie Jackson on 01588 630321 or email annemarie@castle communityleisure.org.uk

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