An art studio is set to turn part of a once-derelict town hall into a new space for artists, makers and creatives, as Isle of Wight Council works to transform the 156-year-old listed building have been completed.
Sandown Town Hall on Grafton Street has been completely transformed structurally and cosmetically in works led by the council, reconfiguring the building while still preserving its heritage.
Works in one section of the hall were completed in January, turning it into a dedicated hub for young people to play sports and thrive at as part of a new ambitious youth programme.
But after completing further extensive structural works, the Isle of Wight Council is now leasing a second space in the hall to GRAFT STUDIOS, which will allow independent artists to rent out their own individual studio.
Founded by Adumbration Arts, GRAFT STUDIOS is a place for creatives who need dedicated space to develop their work. The light-filled studios will offer a place where people can focus on making while also being part of a small creative community.
GRAFT’s ethos recognises that contemporary artistic practice and heritage crafts are equally valuable forms of cultural expression.
The studios aim to support a wide range of practices, from visual and interdisciplinary work to traditional and endangered craft skills, creating an environment where different approaches to making can sit alongside and learn from one another.
Alongside providing workspace, the studios plan to build connections with the local community through partnerships, memberships, open studio events, workshops and opportunities for people to meet and learn more about creative practice.
Emma Souter, creative director at GRAFT, said:
“It’s an exciting time, we will develop into what those joining us help us to become.”
“Artist studios are a proven Catalyst, contributing positive changes to areas that need it.
“There are so many wonderful individuals, organisations and creatives working thoughtfully towards Sandown’s future, it’s really inspiring and we’re excited to become part of it.”
Gareth Rees, director of training at GRAFT, said:
“Providing opportunity is integral to our ambitions.
“We want to support people to explore interests, develop practical and creative skills, and build confidence and direction through real projects.”
Built in 1869, extensive works have been completed at Sandown Town Hall to breathe new life into both spaces.
In 2023, it was announced that the Isle of Wight Council had secured £3.1 million in funding through the UK Government’s Youth Investment Fund which would go towards restoration work and the creation of the youth programme.
The project was carried out in tandem with the development of the Bay Area Place Plan and delivers on priorities established through the Building the Bay steering group, a collaborative regeneration initiative between Shanklin Town Council, Sandown Town Council, Lake Parish Council and the Isle of Wight Council.
Major structural and cosmetic repairs to the 156-year-old building were overseen by the Isle of Wight Council in partnership with designers and project managers at ERMC.
The works were delivered by Island-based business MCM Construction.
Councillor Julie Jones-Evans, chair of the Economy, Regeneration, Transport and Infrastructure Committee, said:
“The completion of works at Sandown Town Hall represents a significant moment for the community and a fresh chapter for this much loved building.
“When the future of the Town Hall was uncertain, I felt it was important that we explored every possible option to keep it in public use and ensure it continued to serve local people.
“I am incredibly proud of our regeneration team, whose creativity and dedication have transformed the building into a space that supports both young people and our growing creative community. It reflects the council’s commitment to cultural regeneration as a core strand of place-based strategy.
“The new youth facilities and studio spaces will give children in the Bay Area exciting opportunities to develop and thrive, while offering artists and makers a welcoming place to collaborate and create.
“At a time when many people are seeking connection, this project brings people together and helps strengthen the cultural and social fabric of Sandown.”
Councillor Ian Ward, ward member for Sandown South, said:
“It’s fantastic to see more positive action happening in Sandown. The transformation of the town hall is another real step forward for the area, creating space for young people to thrive and now giving artists and makers a home to develop their talents.
“Sandown has an incredible community spirit, and projects like this help build confidence and bring fresh energy into the town.”
Elsewhere in Sandown Town Hall, a new and ambitious youth programme has been launched. LINK, which is run by Community Action Isle of Wight’s Bay Youth Project, could now serve over 200 young people per week after opening its doors on January 5.
Through the programme, Sandown Town Hall will host a range of sports activities and study sessions, with a sound studio also available for music practice.
The space has become a dedicated hub for young people to gather at and thrive, with the building already playing host to drop-in cricket, boxing and art sessions in recent weeks.
