Art / Exhibition spaces
The Vestibules to continue until 2021
Good news for Bristol’s artists and art lovers, as The Vestibules, the two exhibition spaces within City Hall run by Bristol arts charity and venue managers Artspace Lifespace (ASLS), are to continue as an arts venue until 2021.
The Vestibules story so far: in 2017, Marvin Rees and Bristol City Council’s Arts Development Team collaborated with ASLS to open up the two vestibules at each end of City Hall, as a creative space in the heart of Bristol. Situated at either end of the Grade II listed building, the previously redundant entrances offered the opportunity to showcase the cultural work happening in the city in a unique space.
From festival hubs to fine art exhibitions, Artspace Lifespace have facilitated hundreds of artistic activities at The Vestibules, developing them into spaces for conversation, production, and presentation. The charity has now signed an 18-month lease to continue with this project.
is needed now More than ever
ASLS recycles vacant, under-used and problem properties into thriving creative resources. The charity works in partnership with artists, building owners, property developers, local communities and organisations to secure and re-cycle interesting, unusual and often difficult buildings as vibrant multi-use art venues.
Under Artspace Lifespace’s tenancy, the two Vestibules at either end of the City Hall have been used for exhibitions, performances, festivals and more
In 2020, ASLS will be offering free residency periods in both the Deanery Rd and Park St Vestibule. The residency application is available upon request at thevestibules@artspacelifespace.com or can be downloaded from theislandbristol.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/Residency-info-pack-ASLS.docx
This is a rolling opportunity and is open to charities, community groups, educational groups, artists and students. The residency periods will run from Jan-March and July-October 2020.
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Upcoming exhibitions, meanwhile, include Roma Stories (November 5-7), Bristol’s first exhibition celebrating the cultural histories of the Roma community.
“Talent should be encouraged to flourish whenever the opportunity arises and this is central to why I have taken the step of opening up The Vestibules to art groups,” Mayor Rees explains. “Bristol’s arts and culture sector is a vital part of our local economy and I am determined to support the industry as much as possible.
“Despite funding cuts that mean there is less money available for investment I am eager to see us explore alternative ways of supporting the sector. I am delighted to work in partnership with Artspace Lifespace in this new venture and look forward to welcoming individuals and groups to showcase their work.”
Find out more about The Vestibules and their forthcoming programme at theislandbristol.com/events/category/the-vestibules
Read more: Exploring magic at Bristol Museum
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