Stanford Contemporary Arts Centre - The Bullpen

On the outskirts of Stanford in the Vale, a new Contemporary Arts Centre is being established. Situated on Mill Farm on the Faringdon Road, it consists of both new buildings and renovated farm buildings. In the summer we hope to open the centre; which comprises a contemporary art gallery, three artists studios and a foundry - for the casting of other sculptors' work.

The centre will run an education programme in conjunction with the gallery, showing the contemporary art work of many artists both local and visiting. The public will be able to view the casting of metal sculptures in the foundry, to take part in artists' workshops and demonstrations in the largest studio (temporary gallery) space, and to enjoy exhibitions in the gallery.

Synopsis of Key Elements of Project:

1. Gallery:

• The gallery will house permanent and temporary exhibitions, in a small restored stone barn, connected by new build to the adjoining section of the gallery which is also a new build. The gallery will show the work of leading local artists and those from further afield, exploring a range of work, techniques, disciplines and styles – all contemporary. It will give artists a base from which they will have the opportunity to display and sell their work.
• This project will attract and encourage practising artists, locally and from the wider area – as visitors and practitioners.
• It will provide an accessible service to the public, by opening the gallery, training/teaching local artists new contemporary skills and techniques.
• It will provide opportunities for local people and visitors/tourists to view and to purchase the work of artists from all disciplines, locally and nationally.

2. Foundry:

• The foundry will be a unique facility, producing bronzes and other metalwork for local artists. There is no other fine art foundry facility producing castings for artists in the area, and this will be the commercial element of the project.
• It will be providing an exclusive service to artists, whereby their work can be cast in metal at the project’s foundry.
• The history of an art culture will be explored through its practical application; running artists’ studios, a gallery and a foundry. The foundry will add another dynamic to teaching and training.
• It will utilise other local businesses, making links with the wider community.
• Using existing (derelict) farm buildings and space, the farm and community will benefit from the project’s rejuvenation, in a mixture of new buildings and restoration.

3. Studios:

• Workspaces (studios) in the new buildings and conversions complement many different creative industries, such as cultural industries (particularly craft-based), leisure and tourism.
• Tourism is an important part of farm diversification, and this project will attract visitors. Its location, Mill Farm, is rural but very accessible.
• It is on a main route, with steady passing traffic – yet also feels exclusive to the countryside.
• This project will provide the opportunity of employment for local people in the rural community. Those leading the project live within walking distance of its location.
• The studios are to be rented, with a view to starting a new artist-community of working and exhibiting.

4. Workshops:

• Workshops will be on offer, covering a wide range of techniques and processes. Interactive learning opportunities will be available, from first-hand observation of artists at work, and through demonstrations.
• It will develop cultural richness, raising awareness of art and its profile, bringing contemporary visual arts to the rural community. Talks and lectures will be held in the premises, exhibitions held (permanent and temporary) and demonstrations given. The workshops will target all age groups.
• Open studios will present an educational resource and hands-on learning experiences. The farm business needs to diversify in order to maintain the economic vitality of the rural community – and this project, in all its elements, aids the farm diversification process.