This summer, the Arches Studios marks 20 years of supporting artists in Southampton, and everyone is warmly invited to join the celebration.
Since 2005, the Arches has offered a unique, inclusive and welcoming space for artists to explore, develop and share their work. From 11th July, a vibrant exhibition programme along with open doors studio event, exhibition tours, live music and workshops will take place across God’s House Tower and the Arches Studios.
At the heart of the celebration is Inside the Artist’s Studio: 20 Years of the Arches. This curated exhibition brings together work by current residents, shown within the historic surroundings of God’s House Tower.
There will also be an Open Doors event at Arches Studios. All 25 resident artists will open their studios to the public. Step inside these working spaces, browse original artworks and meet the artists. Hear first-hand about the ideas, experiments and stories behind their work.
These are spaces of inspiration and invention — part playground, part laboratory. Places for taking risks, trying new ideas and learning through trial and error. You might see an artwork in its final form, or catch a glimpse of something just beginning to take shape.
Throughout the celebration, Arches artists will lead a range of workshops and tours. The workshops give you the opportunity to learn a new skill from a current resident artist. They’re free and open to everyone and offer a great chance to get hands-on, try something new, and discover first-hand what makes the Arches community so inspiring.
If you’d like a closer look at the Arches Studios and the exhibition at God’s House Tower, you can join a free artist led guided tour. You’ll explore the studios and finish at GHT with an in-depth look at the exhibition.
Alongside the exhibition, a shop featuring locally made art, craft and design will run at God’s House Tower. Here you can browse unique pieces created by the studio community.
The Arches Studios began as a small artist-run collective and has grown into a vibrant creative hub. Today, it supports artists at all stages of their careers and plays a key role in shaping the creative culture of Southampton.
With national and international collaborations and a commitment to underrepresented voices, the Arches continues to inspire far beyond the studio walls.
For more information, visit aspacearts.org.uk/studios/arches-studios
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