NeST Artists' Studios
The Vision-led NeST art gallery project, in the former Dorants garage in Newgate, opened its doors to both public and artists in August 2010.
As well as housing a range of traditional and contemporary artworks in the exhibition area, and providing an on-site cafe for member of the public to have a bite to eat while watching the artists at work, NeST is also designed to become a centre for new technology and a hub for the dale’s creative community.
Deborah Jenkins, chairwoman of the Vision, said:“This is an exciting time for Barnard Castle Vision with so many varied projects underway. NeST will support the creative community, many of whom work at home alone.
“It will provide a truly cost-effective service which not only puts our creative and artistic businesses in front of the buying public, but also brings the benefits of Digital City into Teesdale.
“We believe NeST will expand the potential for achievement of the area’s artistic, digital and creative businesses.”
NeST includes open artist’s studios, where the public can watch artists at work, and a cafeteria. The hotdesk area can cater for up to 12 artists to work at any one time – giving those who currently work from home the chance to relocate to a more vibrant working space with those in a similar industry.
Filmmaker Alan Fentiman, who recently relocated to Barnard Castle, said:
“As a locally-based digital artist, I am very excited about the opportunities which NeST presents.
“The hub idea is ideal for people like me who usually work on their own, offering a unique chance to work in a collaborative environment and tap into Digital City’s resources and training courses."
