The Art House Wakefield

08/12/2023

Looking for a unique gift this festive season? 🎁

Visit our Maker’s Wonderland—an exhibition showcasing an array of affordable and inspiring gifts created by local independent artists, makers, and designers.

Open Tuesday to Saturday 9:30 until 16:00.

[Image Description: A poster against a vibrant red background showing a close-up image of a Christmas tree with Sophie Amelia-designed decorations. The text on the poster reads, 'truly unique gifts, shop locally and make a difference]

07/12/2023

Have you had the chance to explore Ryoko Akama: In.visible in our main gallery yet? 📸

Following her time spent on residency this summer, Akama’s latest work responds to family history and examines the fluidity of her experience as an untold Zainichi (Korean immigrant in Japan).

The exhibition invites visitors to walk through an installation of Japanese Kami tape, influenced by the experiences of nearly 100,000 people who travelled from Japan to North Korea under the government’s repatriation scheme.

Additionally, it encourages exploration of a durational performance where the artist intermittently returns, crafting new photographs left exposed to direct sunlight, gradually transforming in both color and tonality.

Ryoko says “I see in.visible as a first step to begin exploring and talking about the conversations that I believe we should be having,”

If you haven't had the chance to visit yet, join us in our main gallery this week from 9:30 to 16:00.

[Image Description: 1. A person is enclosed by vibrant coloured ribbons suspended from the ceiling. 2. A close up image featuring a red lightbox hanging from the ceiling.]

06/12/2023

Considering planning your meetings or events for 2024? 📆

Our meeting rooms and hireable spaces have recently been transformed to create the perfect setting for your upcoming meetings and events in the new year!

Whether you're looking for a classic boardroom or a dynamic learning space for collaboration and training sessions, we've got options to suit every need.

If you’d like to enquire or learn more about our hireable spaces, visit the link below.

Browse our spaces 👉 https://bit.ly/3Pxs91j

[Image Description: 1. A wide angle image of our learning space, showcasing the 20:20 print exchange featured on the walls in the background. The image includes a table surrounded by chairs. 2. An image capturing the hallway leading to the learning space]

05/12/2023

Step inside ‘A Tangled Thread’ by Sophie Jones 🧶

Leeds-based artist and recent graduate of Leeds Arts University celebrates childhood mark making and exploring young parenthood at the intersection of hand-embroidery.

A Tangled Thread is a new body of work and the culmination of a twelve-month project in which Jones directly stitched into their daughter’s felt tip marks, captured onto calico over two four-week periods.

On display in our Learning Space until January 2024.

Sophie Jones: A Tangled Thread 👉 https://bit.ly/484M7Ha

[Image Description: The image features Sophie Jones seated on a chair, hand stitching vibrant coloured embroidery onto a calico fabric]

04/12/2023

Celebrating UK Disability History Month at The Art House 🎨

As this year’s UKDHM concludes on December 16, we take a moment to reflect on our journey and values at The Art House.

Since our inception in 1994 by a diverse group of artists, The Art House proudly carries a rich legacy of supporting disabled artists. Today, our space stands as a vibrant creative home with 50 accessible artist studios, exhibition spaces, on-site accessible accommodation for creatives, a shop, a coffee house, and meeting rooms and event spaces for hire.

Distinguished as the only purpose-built accessible studio space in the region, and one of the few in the country, The Art House has evolved over the years, and our commitment to inclusivity has grown in tandem.

We are proud to maintain the same core values that our former artists and creatives held when The Art House began, remaining dedicated to developing the work we do with and for the community.

“The work of The Art House was founded and grounded in breaking barriers for those that need it – and we continue to live this philosophy each day, focusing on supporting underrepresented and marginalized background networks.” – Damon Jackson-Waldock, Programme Director.

[Image Description: An external view of The Art House building from Drury Lane with a person walking nearby]

02/12/2023

Embrace the festive spirit this weekend 🎄✨

Step into Makers Wonderland, an immersive exhibition where you can cosy up with seasonal drinks. Explore a carefully curated selection of artworks, gifts, prints, ceramics, and furniture—all crafted by local independent artists, makers, and designers.

We’re open today from 9:30 untill 16:00.

[Image Description: A poster with a green background featuring an image of a fireplace with four stockings hanging from a shelf, complemented by lamps and handmade ceramics. The text on the poster reads, 'step inside Makers Wonderland until the 23rd of December]

29/11/2023

There’s only a few spaces left for our Linocut Christmas Cards workshop on the 6 December🎄🎨

Join us for a delightful evening, discovering the art of printing your personalised festive cards to send to friends and family this Christmas.

During this session, you'll carve your unique lino design, work with high quality oil-based inks, and utilise our traditional Albion relief printing press.

Be quick, book your place by visiting the link 👉 https://bit.ly/3L9zKRj

[Image Description: The image shows the creation of a linocut Christmas card shaped like a circle, in a snowflake design]

28/11/2023

Struggling to find the perfect Christmas gift? 🎁

For the creative soul in your life, why not consider our Workshop & Courses gift cards.

Starting in January 2024, we’re offering a variety of creative sessions, such as crafting your own silver ring, experiencing a darkroom printing taster, or enrolling in a two-week hand-building ceramics course.

Our gift cards allow you to book onto any of our workshops or courses, all you need to do is simply choose how much you’d like to spend!

Visit the link to shop 👉 https://bit.ly/3R0C4Mi

[Image Description: A green poster featuring an Art House Christmas gift card. The text on the poster reads, 'give the gift of creativity this Christmas, shop our workshops and courses gift cards']

27/11/2023

Spaces for our festive workshops are filling up fast 🎄✨

If you're interested in joining, we still have availability for our festive textile tree workshop on Saturday 2 December.

Join us for a creative morning, crafting Scandinavian Star decorations with step by step guidance from .quilts and learn to master both machine sewing and traditional folding techniques.

This workshop is perfect for beginners, Christmas lovers, and anyone keen on adding a personal touch to their Christmas tree this year.

To book your place, visit the link 👉 https://bit.ly/3L9zKRj

[Image Description: A table displays three textile Christmas tree decorations crafted from fabric in shades of blue, red, white, and green]

25/11/2023

📣 Due to unforeseen circumstances, we’re closed today.

We apologise for any inconvenience however we’ll be back open as usual next week.

[Image Description: The Art House building and open-air terrace, featuring a painted call mural saying Make Art Here surrounded by flowers]

24/11/2023

Give the gift of your support this Black Friday 🖤

There's no better gift for a charity than a donation. Each one, no matter the size, helps us to continue our vital creative work with communities across Wakefield.

Donate today by clicking the link 👉 https://bit.ly/4a1xCpA

Thank you!

[Image Description: A poster with a blue background featuring a yellow art house bauble that reads 'give a truly special gift this black friday']

23/11/2023

Get in the festive spirit and create ceramic baubles with us! 🎄

Join us on the 2 December from 10:00 to learn how to pinch and coil your very own decorations for this year’s tree.

To book your place or find out more, visit the link 👉 https://bit.ly/3L9zKRj

[Image Description: Hands are painting ceramic Christmas baubles with orange paint]

22/11/2023

Makers Wonderland is here! 🎄❄️✨

Our beautiful Tiled Gallery has been transformed to offer a unique twist on a traditional winter craft market.

Join us until the 23rd of December to shop exclusive and affordable gifts, handmade locally.

To find out more, visit the link 👉 https://bit.ly/46qOzqm

[Image Description: 1. A wide angle view of The Art House's Tiled Gallery, now transformed into Makers Wonderland. 2. A cinematic glimpse of a tiered table displaying ceramics, including vessels and candlesticks created by Hannah Way. 3. An image capturing a fireplace with four stockings hanging from a shelf. 4. A close up view of lampshades and custom lamp bases created by Ian Stephenson]

21/11/2023

We are excited to share the news of Maternal Journal artwork's launch at Pinderfields Hospital, a collaboration involving and the maternity team at the trust 🎨

Since our partnership in 2021 and with support from and , we have conducted creative workshops post-pandemic, benefiting diverse groups, including perinatal women in Wakefield and the broader district.

Participants in these workshops have created beautiful artwork, made possible by funding from the University of Sheffield Faculty of Social Sciences and have been donated to the Mid Yorkshire NHS Trust for display in Pinderfields maternity department.

Currently, we are conducting Maternal Journal workshops at The Art House during term times on Mondays at 10:00am, and now at Stanley Library on Fridays starting from 24 November at 12:30pm.

For further information, please feel free to contact us directly.

[Image Description: Pictured left to right, alongside Maternal Journal artwork at Pinderfields Hospital: Diane Saxon, The Art House Arts and Health Programme Manager, Rebecca Thomas, Lead Perinatal Specialist Midwife, June Lee, Maternity Matron and Dr Jessica Bradley, University of Sheffield Researcher and Evaluator]

15/11/2023

Create your own Christmas tree decorations with us 🎄

Join us on 25 November as we get into the festive spirit with our Ceramic Tree Crafting session.

For £40 per person, take the chance to craft unique Christmas decorations using rolled clay slabs and infuse your personal touch into this year's Christmas tree.

To learn more or book your ticket, visit the link 👉 https://bit.ly/3L9zKRj

[Image Description: A wooden holder showcasing completed ceramic decorations. 2. A table showing a variety of ceramic decorations alongside a shaped cutter. 3. A close up view of ceramic decorations crafted in the shapes of Christmas trees and stars.]

14/11/2023

Looking for a creative workshop this weekend? 🎨

There are still a few spots available for our Creating Cyanotype workshop on Saturday.

Explore the art of crafting your own Cyanotype masterpiece in a 5-hour session, offering you the chance to personally experiment or create a gift for someone special.

For more details or to secure your place, visit the link visit 👉 https://bit.ly/3L9zKRj

[Image Description: A table displaying completed Cyanotype artwork]

12/11/2023

Come and be a part of Light Up Wakefield by crafting your very own 'Funkytown' handheld lantern, drawing inspiration from the distinctive windows of Westgate🏮

Join artists and for free, family friendly drop-in workshops taking place on each day of the Light Up Wakefield festival.

Dates & Location:

✨ 17 & 18 November
✨ 4:00pm to 6:00pm
✨ The Art House, Drury Lane

See you there!

[Image Description: A person crafting lanterns and cutting shapes from paper]

10/11/2023

If you’re a fan of festive workshops, this one is for you! Join us on Saturday 18th November and create your very own festive robin with us 🎄✨

In this workshop, you'll get hands-on experience in needle felting to craft a charming robin nestled in a mini festive wreath.

We only have a few tickets left, so be quick and book your place visit the link 👉 https://bit.ly/3L9zKRj

[Image Description: A felt robin nestled inside a wreath]

09/11/2023

A truly special moment we're excited to share ✨

We’re proud to announce here at The Art House, we've received our second Sanctuary Award, securing the prestigious title of Gallery of Sanctuary and reaffirming our standing as a Studio of Sanctuary.

Back in 2017, we proudly became the very first Studio of Sanctuary in the UK. This recognition reflects our unwavering commitment to supporting individuals seeking asylum in our country over the past six years.

It also celebrates our dedication to providing a platform in our galleries for artists who have lived experiences of displacement.

Whilst we have seen our Studio of Sanctuary work go from strength to strength, the journey has not been without its upsets. Sydney Thornbury, our CEO explains:

“We have been in detention centres fighting for artists to be released, held people in our arms while they sobbed with homesickness, and breathed in sighs of relief when our lawyers called us with the news that a beloved artist had been taken off a deportation flight hours before it left. In many ways, Studio of Sanctuary is the hardest work we do. But for us, it is also the most rewarding.”

We're absolutely delighted to continue our mission as a Gallery of Sanctuary, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone for your continued support.

[Image Description: A woman wearing green unveils The Art House's second sanctuary award displayed on the wall]

08/11/2023

We still have a few spaces left for our Collograph Taster Session on Saturday! 🎨

Collograph is a technique that creates intriguing shapes, patterns, and textures on paper using a range of materials and textured tapes.

In this workshop, you'll craft a collograph plate and create a series of prints on A4 paper using relief printing processes.

Whether you're a beginner or have experience in printmaking, this taster session is perfect for those looking to learn a new skill or refresh existing ones.

To reserve your place, visit the link 👉 https://bit.ly/3L9zKRj

[Image Description: 1. Two women are standing next to each other in the studio, wearing masks, involved in the printing process. 2. A close-up view of a roller in use for printmaking.]

07/11/2023

The moment we proudly introduced Lord Victor Adebowale as the first Honorary Patron of The Art House 🌟

As we celebrated our second Sanctuary Award a few weeks ago, we had the honour of listening to Lord Victor as he shared the personal significance of The Art House's building from his childhood.

His story held a special poignancy, for he depicted the building as a sanctuary where he felt safe and acquired valuable knowledge from a young age.

This story, in all its sincerity, serves as a testament to the substantial work we've achieved through the Studio of Sanctuary and serves as a reminder to maintain our mission, extending a warm welcome to everyone with open arms.

As an expression of our heartfelt gratitude, we presented a plaque taken from the old library bookshelves, and the moment could not have been more special.

Thank you again for all you do for us .

[Image Description: 1. Lord Victor and Sydney, our CEO, embrace on stage with the award presented by The Art House. 2. A close-up of Lord Victor displaying his honorary award to a guest. 3. An image of The Art House team, standing alongside Lord Victor in front of the Studio of Sanctuary exhibition.]

06/11/2023

Looking for a creative course to join this week? 🎨🖼

Join us this Wednesday to explore screen printing with our expert teaching artist and create your own artwork in this three-session evening course.

Throughout the course, you'll learn a variety of screen printing techniques, including hand-cut stencils, photo emulsions, and monoprinting. And by the end, you’ll proudly walk away with your very own limited edition screen prints on A3 cartridge paper.

To book your place or learn more about the course, visit the link 👉 https://bit.ly/3L9zKRj

[Image Description: A person wearing a blue jumper is in the process of screen printing]

06/11/2023

We're delighted to unveil our 2023-2024 Autumn/Winter Programme 🎉

Prepare for another exciting exhibition season that wholeheartedly champions emerging and mid-career artists as they cultivate their craft and explore timely themes we're dedicated to showcasing.

With an array of exhibitions, artist residencies, and programmes, we're eager to share what we've curated with you.

Read more about our Autumn/Winter programme via our website 👉 https://bit.ly/3StNUB7

[Image Description: A person stood inside 'Inner Horizons' by Cat Scott]

The Art House in Wakefield is delighted to announce its Autumn-Winter artistic programme, which features an exciting range of exhibitions, residencies, and artist support programmes.

04/11/2023

We have something exciting to announce… 🎄❄️

As the festive season approaches, we are delighted to unveil Makers Wonderland!

On the 11th of November, our Tiled Gallery will undergo a magical transformation into a festive wonderland, where you can explore a curated collection of exceptionally talented artists and makers.

Mark your calendars, the exhibition runs from 11 November - 23 December.

Keep your eyes peeled for more updates!

[Image Description: A poster with a green background featuring a festive robin, surrounded by moving snowflakes. The poster provides information about Makers Wonderland at The Art House]

01/11/2023

🎄 Join us in celebrating Wakefield Light Up 🎄

On the 17th and 18th November, we'll be open late to celebrate Light Up 2023 with free and fun activities. Stay late for an evening of free family glow-in-the-dark activities, neon henna and body art, lantern making workshops, exhibition visits after hours, kinetic neon sculpture by Fred Tschida as well as late night shopping in our Festive Makers Wonderland.

Who will be there? Comment below 👇

[Image Description: A poster which features a black background with white, blue and glowing purple text that announces ‘The Art House Late' along with event details]

31/10/2023

We're thrilled to announce, as part of our growing partnership with Leeds Arts University, The Art House presents Sophie Amelia: Authentic Expression 🎨

Authentic Expression is 's latest collection, made for neurodivergent women and femme-aligned people who want to celebrate their authentic identities and start to make their spaces work for them.

By applying an innovative human-centred approach, Sophie explores how design can improve well-being through sensory regulation, particularly for neurodivergent people.

Her process is influenced by time spent in community workshops and aims to provoke societal change through empowerment and embracing authenticity.

Authentic Expression is on display in Wakefield Cathedral from 2nd November until 4th December.

[Image Description: 1. A picture of Sophie Amelia with her artwork showcased on a wall in the background 2. An image of Sophie Amelia's print screen designs exhibited at a gallery. 3. An close up image of black and white prints exhibited on a table next to a paintbrush.]

29/10/2023

Sending warm wishes to Jess as she begins her maternity leave! 👶

Although we'll dearly miss her warmth and presence here at The Art House, we can't wait to welcome the newest addition to her family.

We look forward to having you back with us, Jess, but until then, enjoy every moment of this special chapter.

[Image Description: A blonde haired woman dressed in blue, white and black clothing passing a coffee to another woman inside The Art House coffee shop.]

26/10/2023

We're thrilled to announce, as part of our growing partnership with Leeds Arts University, The Art House presents Sophie Jones: A Tangled Thread from 2 November 2023 until January 2024 🧶

Sophie Jones, a talented artist from Leeds and a recent graduate of Leeds Arts University, celebrates the art of childhood mark-making while delving into the realm of young parenthood through the medium of hand embroidery.

This remarkable collection represents the culmination of a year long project in which Jones intricately stitched their daughter's felt tip creations onto calico canvas over two four-week periods.

As a special treat, mark your calendars for the 3 November when Sophie Jones extends an invitation to join a workshop, fostering collaboration between parents and children in the art of drawing. During this session, you'll discover the artistry of crafting a small calico tapestry, all while exploring various drawing and threading techniques.

To secure your spot for the family embroidery workshop, follow the link 👉 https://bit.ly/3M9hTu8

[Image Description: An individual skillfully working with orange thread, stitching it onto a piece of calico fabric]

25/10/2023

We have some exciting news! 🎉

We’ve been shortlisted as finalists in the Wakefield Business Awards 2023, presented by We Are Wakefield.

This year, we've earned recognition in the 'Not for profit/charity of the year' category, and we couldn't be more delighted.

We extend our heartfelt thank you to all who have supported us, and we look forward to the upcoming ceremony in November.

[Image Description: A poster featuring a black background with gold and white text stating 2023 finalist, charity of the year]

24/10/2023

Come and join us for an immersive one day workshop, where you'll dive into the world of traditional linocut relief printmaking 🎨

Experience a day filled with designing, carving, and printing as you create your own set of single color lino prints on A4 paper within our professional studio.

During the workshop, you'll also have the unique opportunity to utilise our traditional Albion relief printing press, restored by The Art House and generously on long term loan from Wakefield Museum.

Introduction to Lino Printing
Saturday 28 October
11:00 16:00

To find out more and book your tickets, head to the link 👉 https://bit.ly/3L9zKRj

[Image Description: A detailed shot capturing a green jigsaw linocut print suspended for drying]

23/10/2023

It’s your last chance to experience the 20:20 print exchange and Cat Scott's Inner Horizons before they conclude this week.

🖼 In our learning space, the 20:20 print exchange unveils an extensive array of printing styles, techniques, and subjects.

🫧 Meanwhile, Cat Scott's installation invites you to step into a mesmerizing bubble, offering a unique opportunity to explore an inner world on a scale that's otherwise impossible to encounter.

If you haven't had the opportunity to visit yet, join us this week!

Read more about Catt Scott's, Inner Horizons in the Wakefield Express 👉 https://bit.ly/45BmwUI

📸 credit:

[Image Description: 1. A picture showcasing an assortment of prints from the 20:20 print exchange displayed on the wall. 2. A person stood inside 'Inner Horizons by Cat Scott]

20/10/2023

The Artisan Dipping Platter 😍

Find a cosy spot in our coffee house and enjoy a range of light lunch options made with freshly baked bread from Cellar Door Bakery.

From savoury dishes to sweet treats, our coffee house is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 9:30 to 16:00.

And the best part? We’re also dog-friendly, so you never have to leave your furry friend behind.

[Image Description: An up close view of an artisan dipping platter made with locally sourced ingredients.]

18/10/2023

🌟 Makers Spotlight

We’re thrilled to announce we’ve received beautiful pieces from Joy Rooney back into our shop. Joy is a Yorkshire-based printmaker and textile designer known for her dedication to environmentally friendly materials and themes.

To explore the complete collection, visit The Art House shop on your next visit or click shop online via the link 👉 https://bit.ly/464jUPH

[Image Description: A collection of three bold and colourful still life prints made by Joy Rooney]

16/10/2023

Ever considered refining your creative abilities or learning a new skill? 📸🎨

Discover our diverse memberships tailored for our ceramics studio, darkroom, and print studio.

Each membership grants you full access to our facilities, along with the opportunity to tap into technical guidance provided by our skilled teaching artists.

To explore each creative space and learn more about the memberships, visit our webiste 👉 https://bit.ly/3RsM57d

[Image Description: 1. A group of women wearing masks are printing in The Art House print studio. 2. Close up of somebody working on a clay pot on a moving pottery wheel. 3. A clock in The Art House darkroom]

15/10/2023

Join us on a captivating Photowalk through various corners of Wakefield city centre, led by our Darkroom Coordinator, Emily Ryalls 📸

During this adventure, you'll delve into the art of creating analogue photographs while responding to the local environment.

Throughout the Photowalk, Emily will guide you in both creative and technical aspects of capturing the world around you through traditional photography.

To find out more and book your tickets, head to the link 👉 https://bit.ly/3L9zKRj

[Image Description: A woman is loading a roll of film into an analogue camera]

14/10/2023

This winter The Art House welcomes visitors to experience the unfolding of in.visible, an exciting new solo show by Huddersfield based artist Ryoko Akama. In this new body of work, the artist manipulates light and process as she pushes the boundaries of traditional analogue photography, performance and sculpture.

Following her time spent at The Art House on residency this summer, Akama’s latest work responds to family history and examines the fluidity of her experience as an untold Zainichi (Korean immigrant in Japan). in.visible presents a new performing body of photographic work and sculpture which will change and develop over the show’s duration.

The artist uses these experimental photographic methods to examine themes of loss, identity, injustice, contradiction, and pride, as well as investigating how her own personal cultural ‘root’ has shaped her as an artist.

Join us to explore Ryoko's display in our main gallery from 14 October - 13 January 2024.

[Image Description: 1. An individual encircled by vibrant ribbons suspended from the gallery ceiling. 2. A close-up shot of a lens focusing on a photography piece displayed on the wall. 3. A wide angle view of a photograph positioned on the gallery floor, illuminated by a spotlight positioned in front of it]