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A nest which nurtures local artists

THE organisation tasked with transforming Barnard Castle has announced one of its biggest projects yet, which will unite artists and creatives throughout Teesdale.

The Vision-led Nest art gallery project, in the former Dorants garage in Newgate, will be opening its doors to both public and artists in this month.

As well as housing a range of traditional and contemporary artworks in the exhibition area, members of the Vision hope Nest will also become a centre for new technology and a hub for the dale’s creative community.

Deborah Jenkins, chairwoman of the Vision, said: “This is an exciting time for Barnard Castle Vision with so many varied projects underway. Nest will support the creative community, many of whom work at home alone.

“It will provide a truly cost-effective service which not only puts our creative and artistic businesses in front of the buying public, but also brings the benefits of Digital City into Teesdale.

“We believe Nest will expand the potential for achievement of the area’s artistic, digital and creative businesses.”

Nest will also include open artist’s studios, where the public can watch artists at work, and a cafeteria.

The hotdesk area can cater for up to 12 artists to work at any one time – giving those who currently work from home the chance to relocate to a more vibrant working space with those in a similar industry.

Filmmaker Alan Fentiman, who recently relocated to Barnard Castle, said: “As a locally-based digital artist, I am very excited about the opportunities which Nest presents.

“The hub idea is ideal for people like me who usually work on their own, offering a unique chance to work in a collaborative environment and tap into Digital City’s resources and training courses.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .