Students and graduates from Glasgow School of Art have launched a new co-op to support young creatives in their transition from art school into professional practice.
Saltspace Co-operative occupies three previously vacant shop units in the city – two on Saltmarket and one on High Street. The sites have been provided through Glasgow City Property’s ‘Space for Growth’ initiative.
The co-op’s first exhibition shows its founding members’ work.
Saltspace member Jan Graham said: “One of our aims is to help reanimate the Saltmarket and High street. We’ve taken over three vacant shops with the aim of increasing footfall and ultimately supporting the sustainability of the existing small businesses in the area.
“We also want to play a part in celebrating the history and heritage of this part of Glasgow, whilst fostering inclusive spaces that provide pathways for participation for the wider community.”
“We provide inclusive, creative environments to facilitate opportunities for and support the growth of our members.”
The three spaces will be:
The Maker Space, with four or five desk spaces for new graduates and creative people looking for an affordable studio space with a strong support network of creative people. It will also have shop where members of the co-op can sell their work for a low commission rate. The public will be able to see the artists at work, unveiling the creative process.
The Community Space, nurturing members’ skills through weekly workshops and a programme of events and talks in collaboration with local residents, businesses and the wider community.
The Gallery Space, with gallery and residency area for one or two people – offering artists at the beginning of their career a studio space where they can develop work to show at the Salt Gallery. This space will also provide a platform for other SaltSpace members to exhibit their work.
