Fingers crossed for artist studios during 2021

Fingers crossed for a bright and prosperous 2021. We look forward to some point in the near future when we can reopen our doors at Ayres House Studios to the public again.

Open, close, open, close; what a year its been! Despite its lows, 2020 had a few silver linings. Thank you to everyone who helped make this year better, whether by accident or design.

The studios are currently open behind closed doors and already this year its a socially distanced, masked and hand gelled hive of creative industry for those who can't work from home. (We have Click and Collect if you happen to be shopping for art)

Talking to other studio providers, despite all the disruption it appears that demand for studio space around the country is still high and has largely unaffected studio use. This could be because artists are largely accustomed to financial uncertainty or because the need to have a space to create feels even more necessary. Many people have reevaluated priorities and are looking to work creatively. For some furlough has meant they have been able to work more on their art and less on second jobs.

Nationally there have been Government grants for small businesses, which have been a lifeline, and while restrictions and lockdowns continue, hopefully they will too. The Art sector is always in need of more support, but often this support doesnt filter down to individual practitioners, and is more for institutions within the museums sector and art tourism.

So whether support comes from self sufficiency, each other as artists or family and friends, (the usual). The public purchasing art or services from individual makers, (a goal). Or the Arts Council or Local Council, (the dream). Creative thinkers are well placed to adapt in a pinch, but a bit of luck for 2021 would be most welcome!