An initiative aimed at making art more accessible, while improving the appearance of Grantham town centre, is being launched by South Kesteven’s economic growth and regeneration company InvestSK. 

As part of the Creative Spaces initiative, which is being piloted during November and December, local artists are being invited to exhibit their work or run art and craft workshops in an empty shop in the town’s marketplace.

The ‘pop-up’ shop can be used by groups or individuals and each exhibition will run for 10 days to allow as many people as possible to benefit from the opportunity.

Councillor Rosemary Trollope-Bellew, South Kesteven District Council’s Cabinet Member for Culture, said: “By connecting local artists to the community we can make a real difference to people’s lives and enhance our town centres so they are more enjoyable places to be.

“Arts and culture can also boost local economies by: enticing visitors; creating jobs and developing skills; attracting and retaining businesses; revitalising places; and developing talent – which is why we’re so keen to support initiatives like this.”

Head of Arts at InvestSK Michael Cross added: “Initiatives like this are hugely beneficial, not only to the artists themselves who get the opportunity to display and sell their work, but also to the local community.

“Research by Arts Council England has shown that participation in arts and culture can strengthen community cohesion, reduce social exclusion and isolation and enhance our general wellbeing.

“I look forward to seeing the artists in residence and seeing what opportunities this pilot scheme brings!”

To take part in the Creative Spaces scheme please contact InvestSK by emailing jo.dobbs@investsk.co.uk