By Sonia Koren
A new creative hub has opened its doors in Bramley with the launch of The Mill Gallery, an artist-led space created by and for the community.
Founders Lucy Fiona Morrison and Sarah Francis started working on the gallery in March to launch their first exhibition before Christmas. They plan to host workshops and events, collaborate with local organizations, and invite contributions from artists across the UK.
The heart of The Mill Gallery, at Swinnow Grange Mills, centres on accessibility and transparency to challenge the stigma that art is exclusive. Morrison and Francis hope to encourage the entire community to engage with art.
After the loss of six creative spaces in Leeds, including galleries and workspaces, The Mill Gallery seeks to provide infrastructure and support to the community.
“The talent is already here,” Ms Francis said. “It just needs a place to be seen.”
As part of the “Let Us See You” project, the gallery embraced a “yes” philosophy with its debut exhibition, Celf Ar Waliau. The gallery accepted all 300+ applicants as a statement against gatekeeping in the art world.
“We want to be the people who say yes,” Ms Francis added. “It’s about ensuring that everybody gets the same opportunities no matter where they are.”
Councillor Kevin Ritchie (Lab, Bramley & Stanningley) attended the opening and praised the gallery as a valuable addition to the area.
“[It’s] fantastic to be here. The Mill Gallery is a real asset to Bramley and Stanningley, bringing art closer to the people and providing a free exhibition space alongside community workshops.
“Hopefully, it will unlock some of the vast potential we’ve got here in the arts community,” he said.
The gallery’s free debut exhibition, Celf Ar Waliau, showcases Leeds-based artists and will run from 29 November to 13 December 2024.
The gallery will be open on Fridays from 1-6 pm.
Exhibition Details:
- Exhibition Title: Celf Ar Waliau
- Dates: 29 November – 13 December 2024
- Location: The Mill Gallery, Bramley, Leeds
- Admission: Free
- hello@themillgallery.co.uk
- Instagram: @millgallery
- 0113 824 2935
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