Art fans are being treated to a new venture in Penrith.
Artists Ceri Allen, Christine Lowthian and designer Molly Sellars are occupying empty units at Devonshire Arcade, with the idea the brainchild of Hypha Studios, a charity that links artists and creatives with empty sites around the country.
Will Jennings, director at Hypha said: “We put creatives and artists into empty commercial space, from small to large shop units for limited periods of incubation, to test ideas and develop their practice in new ways.
“In return, we ask all creatives to offer public events – an exhibition, talk, workshop or any kind of commitment to sharing understanding and experience of the arts.”
Carlisle-based Ceri Allen, who studied Fine Art Painting at City & Guilds School of Art, London, works figuratively and primarily in oils on canvas.
Her main interest at the moment is in representing people in an urban environment which is why she was excited to take up this opportunity in Penrith as it gives her a chance to create a new body of work in a different town – and get out to meet people again after the long lockdown period.
Her work, which includes New Place (pictured) is on display in the unit and she will be holding a drawing workshop and a small exhibition towards the end of the residency.
Christine Lowthian has just completed her MA in contemporary fine art. Her practice centres around contemporary debates about the human condition in the 21st century and the way that we might orient ourselves in the future.
On display is her exhibition Being With Prometheus: Twin Flame or Bad Romance accompanied by paintings, small scale collaged pieces, and photographs. There are works available for sale including prints and cards.
Molly Sellars is a young British fashion designer, originally from the Lake District. She recently finished her final year of studying fashion design at the University of Westminster, in London.
Her work reflects her interest in outdoor clothing whilst highlighting sustainability. Repurposing is the key theme – using discarded tents and other unconventional materials to up-cycle into exciting and wearable clothes and accessories.
Molly is using the space to make products from repurposed materials including bags and accessories and larger pieces, for example jackets and trousers that are available for sale. Passers-by will be able to see the process of working on the projects.
She will be holding an artist talk about her work and several workshops showing ways to repurpose items with some free patterns.
Christine Lowthian and Ceri Allen hope to remain in place in the arcade until at least Christmas, with Molly Sellars’ venture running until December 30.
