Empty shops to be used for art exhibitions

Date published: 02 August 2010

Empty shops and offices throughout Rochdale will be used to house artists work as an addition to this year’s Feel Good Festival.

The art work on show will form the ‘Beehive Art Trial’ with over 25 artists living and working in the borough and surrounding areas exhibiting their work across the town centre.

There is no specific route for the Beehive Art Trail just the opportunity to visit all or just a few of the exhibitions.

As well as the trial, organisers of the event are inviting people to help make the largest drawing in Britain at the Exchange shopping centre.

To add to that there will be a chance to help construct a large paper structure in an empty shop in the Exchange over the two days of the Festival.

Emrys Morgan, co-ordinator of the exhibitions and art activities, said: “Art is a solitary activity with artists often working in isolation with little support. This is an opportunity for local artists to showcase their work to the public, plus coming together to share ideas.

“I believe the borough is a healthier place to live and work where culture is seen to be alive rather than hidden away in isolation. I would like to see an arts lab that would provide artists space to practice and for sections of the community to use as a resource.”

Mr Morgan added: “We know the benefits the arts can bring in creating a healthier lifestyle and community; after all it makes people feel good.

“Besides established artists appearing, the festival should also facilitate the borough's artistic community, creating the opportunity for the development of that community.

“I would like to thank all artists who have contributed their work to the exhibitions and the volunteers for making it happen.”

The exhibitions will run alongside the Feel Good Festival on the 13 and 14 August.