Non-commecial Art space in Leeds

At last months Visual Art Framework discussion event a group formed to talk about the potential for non-commercial art space in Leeds. They talked about two types of non commercial spaces - temporary and a permanent - and how this might be achieved. Some notes are..


Temporary Non-commercial spaces: there’s already a lot out there but nevertheless there could be some extra work done.

Action points:

1. Someone in Local Authority to draw up a toolkit to include guidelines, list of spaces, how to do a risk assessment etc to help people use temporary spaces.

2. Implement a scheme for rate relief and rent subsidies for the temporary use of empty commercial spaces and shops in the city.

3. Appoint a Visual Arts officer in the council.

Permanent Non-commercial spaces:

Action Points

1. It would be better if it were a mixed-use contemporary art space (not just visual arts) i.e like Bradford Playhouse.

2. It would be a social place to meet – part funded by bar revenue.

3. It would need to be independent.

4. It would need to have a high level of ambition

5. It could be co-op owned and managed (like a members or social club). Existing organisations like LVAF, PSL etc could share the responsibility of running it perhaps


What do you think to this idea? Could it happen, would you like to be involved if so?

I think this would be a great idea. Perhaps the issues with some that are currently around is that a: they are restricted to one or two types of art, and b: access without a car can be difficult plus opening times don't suit creatives who aren't available through the day (i.e those who work). It can also be a bit off putting to expect artists to have to stump up costs for these types of things given they have no guarantee of a return on investment. What about merging your idea of a commercial venue with the ethos of a non commercial one.

Happy to get involved - have experience of marketing and community projects

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