HOME, the cinema, theatre and arts space, is to expand into the railway arches on Whitworth Street West, to offer free-to-use spaces for artists.
Called HOME Arches, it will take on 258 sq metres of space over three of the currently empty arches, with the development due to be finished in early 2025.
Coinciding with HOME’s 10th anniversary, the spaces will provide facilities for theatre makers, visual artists and filmmakers across Greater Manchester and the North West, with half of it dedicated to artists from groups currently underrepresented in the arts and media industry, including members of the Global Majority, d/Deaf and disabled artists, and artists from lower socio-economic backgrounds.
As well as sound-proofed studio and exhibition space, which will face out onto the street, there will also be flexible areas featuring lighting and sound equipment and even a sprung dancefloor for music events.
The new space will be funded by the UK Government, Manchester City Council, The Wolfson Foundation, The Foyle Foundation, The Granada Foundation alongside trust, corporate, individual and anonymous supporters.
It plans to deliver an annual 5,000 free hours of making, studio and development space for artists and creative freelancers, as well as space for artist residencies, co-working and access to technical equipment and expertise.
Karen O’Neill, CEO of HOME, said: “Since opening in 2015, HOME has been committed to supporting, investing in, and providing opportunities for artists across Greater Manchester and the North, from weekly drop-in sessions to commissions across theatre, film and visual arts. HOME Arches has been a key part of our strategy for artists’ development for many years, so to be opening these new spaces in 2025, our 10-year anniversary, is really special.
“HOME Arches will provide high quality free space and facilities for artists to develop work, create, share ideas and continue to be supported by HOME’s Artist Development programmes.
“The investment and support for the Arches by our funders, donors and supporters confirms that Manchester values culture, and the city continues to grow as a place that artists and creativity can thrive in.
“HOME is excited for the Arches to be part of Manchester’s world leading cultural sector.”
Councillor Garry Bridges, Deputy Leader, Manchester City Council, added: “Culture plays a huge part in the success of Manchester and is a massive draw for people visiting the city as well for all those who choose to live, work and study here.
“Supporting the city’s ever-growing community of artists and creatives who help make this cultural magic happen is therefore really important to us. We know how important it is for them as part of the creative process to have places in which they can work, create and collaborate with others. Bringing the HOME arches back to life in this way will provide additional space and opportunities in the heart of the city centre for them to do this and to further develop their work.”
To find out more about HOME Arches, head here…
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