A COLLECTIVE of artists and makers from the Shepton Mallet area is opening a gallery and shop in the town centre, with a launch on Thursday 17th July.
The Artistry, showcasing the work of more than 30 local artists and makers, is at 37 Town Street, Shepton Mallet. The project is part of Shepton Mallet Town Council’s pop-up shop initiative, aimed at boosting economic regeneration and attracting more visitors. Following a decision last year to fund a pop-up space, the council has provided financial backing to cover the rent of the retail unit, along with an initial grant to help the new shop get up and running.
To deliver the project, Shepton Mallet Town Council appointed Interim Spaces, known for their successful work delivering artist studios and a retail incubator in the town. Interim Spaces has converted the formerly vacant unit into a creative retail space run collectively by local makers.
Featuring handmade homewares, artwork, jewellery, ceramics, textiles and more, The Artistry offers a fresh model of high street trading – a regularly open retail shop with a burgeoning programme of exciting and accessible workshops for the local community.
“We are really excited to see The Artistry come to life and bring a fresh new shop front to our town centre,” said a spokesperson for Shepton Mallet Town Council. “This project is a key part of our wider efforts to support the local economy and breathe new life into our High Street. By investing in pop-up spaces like this, we’re creating opportunities for local makers to grow their businesses while enhancing the vibrancy and appeal of Shepton’s town centre for residents and visitors alike.”
Dan Simon, director of Interim Spaces, says: “The Artistry is both a shop and a platform for local talent, managed by a core group of local makers, and a way to encourage more footfall down to Town Street. We’re proud to be working with Shepton Mallet Town Council, launching another project in our town that is rooted in creativity, community and practical regeneration.”
Those interested in running workshops or selling products can get in touch with the shop by emailing hello@nullthe-artistry.uk.