Artists Launch Pop Up Shop

A new pop-up shop showcasing the work of local artists is due to open in Blackburn town centre.

The shop called No. 11, will feature the work of five artists and is part of the Blackburn is Open scheme to support the creative industries and aspiring entrepreneurs.

No. 11, which will open on Saturday, September 13, will serve as a studio, workshop space and gallery for the artists to show off their creations.

The art work that will be on sale at the Town Hall Street shop will include ceramics, paintings, prints, jewellery, photographs and textile pieces.

It will also stock work by other artists from across the borough.

Community Artist, Cath Ford who creates under the name ‘Cath in the Attic’ is one of the artists behind the project.

The Revidge resident who divides her time between working with schools and communities on art projects and producing her own work, makes colourful hand painted pottery and textiles.

She has seen her creations used in photoshoots for Country Homes and Interiors magazine and also appeared on the cover.

Cath said

I’m excited to be part of the regeneration of Blackburn Town Centre, my home town.

I think this is an ambitious project that is investing in the creativity and spirit of the town by investing in artists and creative people.

I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to show and sell my work in such a high profile town centre location and excited to be working with Blackburn is Open alongside other local people contributing to the future of Blackburn.”

The new shop will open with a celebratory party where visitors can meet the artists and take part in workshops.

No. 11 is the latest venture of the Blackburn Is open a scheme that aims to build a creative community in the heart of Blackburn through opening up empty spaces and shops to creatives and small businesses.

Executive member for Regeneration, Councillor Maureen Bateson, said

Blackburn Is Open provides space and support to creative, talented people to test out their ideas and “have a go”.

Through our empty shops project, our art markets and an open offer for people to stage their own events, we are giving people the opportunity to showcase their work and test their entrepreneurship.

Our main aim is to give them an opportunity to figure out a way to take their business ideas and ambitions forward and to see if this is what they want from their careers.

Whether the results are new commissions, creative collaborations, or just a chance to show their work to a bigger audience the long term goal is to build a creative community that has the confidence and the skills to pursue a future in making, manufacturing and the creative industries.”