A retail hub aimed at putting the talents of local and regional artists and makers on the map has opened at Beverley’s Flemingate centre.
Art and Soul showcases framed art, jewellery, prints, woodwork, ceramics, glassware, embroidery and much more within a creative community with shared goals and ambitions.
Fifty artists and makers have already signed up for space at Art and Soul to showcase their unique talent and offer something different to shoppers.
Art and Soul founder Dr Jane Berriman, from Walkington, near Beverley, makes and sells handmade postage stamp art and has drawn on her own artistic passion to bring the creative emporium to life.
Jane said: “It’s absolutely brilliant to open our doors and everyone involved has been so positive.
“All of our artists have had such a difficult time with exhibitions and art fairs closed because of Covid-19, so for them to have this space and be supported is wonderful.
“We have a fantastic gallery wall with a full view of Beverley Minster, which makes it such a special location, and there is nothing else like this in Beverley where you can access so many artists in one place.”
Located in the former Creative Lab unit, Art and Soul has capacity for up to 185 rental spaces, with prices ranging from £40 to £150 per month for wall or unit areas, and options can be discussed on an individual requirement basis.
Artists and makers within the Art and Soul community will receive regular updates on sales and also have access to an online forum to chat, share ideas and support other creatives.
Jane said: “My hope is that all of the artists enjoy showcasing and selling their work here and are really successful, while shoppers can pop in and find something unique, handmade and very different to the high street.
“This is a place where they can buy something special for themselves or as a gift for family and friends, for any occasion.”
Jo Bridgeman, Flemingate Marketing and Events Manager, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Art and Soul to the centre and it’s fantastic that so many local and regional artists and makers have come together with Jane to make this idea come to life.
“The store looks wonderful and it’s a superb addition to Flemingate. With so much talent on show under one roof, we know it will be loved and appreciated by all who visit.”
Art and Soul is the latest opening at the Flemingate retail and leisure destination, which is owned and operated by Hull-based commercial property developer Wykeland Group.
Flemingate is Beverley’s largest-ever regeneration scheme, featuring big names such as River Island and H&M, as well as local independents, and is also home to the East Riding College campus, an 80-bed Premier Inn hotel and a six-screen Parkway digital cinema.
