The future for the arts in Wales is uncertain- this project aims to help
STRUGGLING artists in Cardiff have jumped at a series of new affordable studios in Penarth.
Penarth Council’s West House Cottage has been disused since the pandemic. Its office furniture has been stripped out to provide creative spaces for the next generation of artists.
The studios were filled within hours of first being advertised on Instagram. Artists are moving in this week, and will be up and running by the New Year.
The town council hopes the project will nurture the arts while putting the disused building to good use.
“If you’re a young artist just starting out, especially in Cardiff, finding affordable studio space is nearly impossible,” said Carl Chapple, a portrait and figure painter who has a studio in Barry.
Mr Chapple said without access to a dedicated workspace, many artists simply can’t produce. “You need somewhere that you can leave your work, make a mess, and come back.”
“I remember my first studio,” he said. “Looking back it was by no means perfect, but it was heaven at the time. It gave me the freedom to focus on my art.”
Left: Artist Carl Chapple Credit: Carl Chapple
Making a living as an artist in Wales has become increasingly difficult, with overall arts funding falling by 30% since 2017.
Arts Council Wales, the public body supporting arts provision in Wales, has received a 40% reduction in funding since 2010, leaving creative people struggling to make a living.
The project provides six individual workspaces and a shared room for up to three people, along with a communal kitchen and seating area.
“This is a brilliant scheme; we need more creative spaces, and I look forward to seeing the works that come from it,” Councillor Elliot Penn told a council meeting.
West House Cottage is an extension of the council-owned West House complex, a former farmhouse in the centre of Penarth now used for council meetings and town administration.
The council also manages Turner House gallery, a space that hosts regular exhibitions, workshops, and community events.
Mr Lewis Prosser, cultural development officer for the council, said that future collaborations between Turner House and the new studios are being considered.
“These could include opportunities for studio artists to participate in exhibitions, workshops, markets, or other curated programmes,” he said.
Left: Turner House Gallery. Credit: James Bessant Davies
The council also manages The Paget Rooms and Penarth Cemetery Chapel venues.
The project will be reviewed by the council after 12 months to assess its impact on the arts community and whether it is financially sustainable.
“This project is about balancing affordability, cost recovery, and community growth,” said Mr Prosser. “The overwhelming interest in these studios shows how necessary they are.
“We hope this project can serve as a case study for other town councils looking to address similar challenges.
“By offering affordable community studios in Penarth, the council aims to nurture local cultural activity while responsibly managing an otherwise vacant asset.”
