Artists help to save a hub of creative activity

An artistic hub has been created in West Yorkshire, with help from a local property company.

When Westgate Studios ceased trading last year, the artists occupying space in the Grade II Listed Prudential Building, in Wakefield, faced losing their studio space.

Westgate Studios had a lease on the building and artists rented studio space from them.

The building’s owner, Classic Properties, which is part of Barnsley-based Quest Property, joined forces with artists Paula Tod and Ian Smith to find a solution.

Ms Tod said; “The building is perfect for artists’ studios as it has large rooms with natural light and a project space for developing and exhibiting work.

“It’s also popular with visitors who, from time to time come to exhibitions and events, and get to see inside the studios and meet the artists.

“When we faced the possibility of having to leave, we were devastated and came up with the idea of approaching the landlord to see whether we could negotiate renting space to artists on an individual basis.”

An agreement has been reached with Classic Properties, and now 27 artists are renting space in the building.

As a result of the deal, painters, jewellers and graphic artists rub shoulders with a composer and a weaver.

Matthew Stephens, from Classic Properties, said: “We are delighted to have been able to formulate a rental agreement to accommodate the artists on Westgate.

“With the opening of the Hepworth Gallery, Wakefield is firmly established as an arts and cultural centre within the north of the country.

“The arrangement demonstrates that through open dialogue, landlords and tenants can work together to the benefit of all parties.

“Through her hard work in sourcing and liaising with artists, Paula has played a key role in making the studios the success it is today.”

Allott Associates is acting on behalf of Classic Properties to market three artists’ studios across the second and third floors.

Mike Allott, from Allott Associates, said the suites would be ideal for “cost-conscious” businesses.