What was a boarded-up eyesore is now a gallery popping with colour and creativity in York.
Arts charity Skippko has turned the long-closed Dorothy Perkins and Burtons shops on Coney into a temporary studio, community and pop-up space, Created In York.
As part of their Blank Canvas programme, Skippko have previously opened pop-ups in Gillygate, Goodramgate and Blake Street.
But with over 7,000 square feet of space to play with, this is their biggest gallery yet.
Blank Canvas coordinator in York Phil Dodsworth thanked the Helmsley Group for letting them use the building for the next 12-18 months.
“My idea is to create a pop-up space where local artists and makers can create a unique and original exhibition space, showcasing many different mediums,” said Phil.
Call out to artists
Artists and makers interested in using the space can contact Phil Dodsworth for further information and to register their interest. Email [email protected].
Please state if you are interested in ground floor / basement level space, or if you have no preference. Please provide information on your artistic practise, including images of your work and website/social media pages.
“York has a fantastic array of artists and makers, so to house a selection of them under one roof in the city centre is a really exciting and original concept.
“It will be great for local people and visitors to the city to be able to view and purchase locally produced, original art and crafts.”
Really exciting
Phil Pinder, York Retail Forum said: “It’s really exciting to get this project off the ground in what can only be described as the most challenging of times for the High Street.
“It shows what can be achieved when property owners are prepared to work collaboratively to bring empty shops back into use.
“The Helmsley Group are fantastic local landlords who truly care about our city. It will be great to see this project up and running and provide a much needed space for dozens of local artists.”
