By Isle of Wight Observer
Part of Sandown Town Hall is set to become a new home for artists, makers, and creatives, following the completion of major restoration works to the Grade II listed building.
The 156-year-old town hall, in Grafton Street, has been transformed in a project led by the Isle of Wight Council, with structural and cosmetic works completed, while preserving the building’s heritage.
A second space within the building is now being leased to Graft Studios, founded by Adumbration Arts, where independent artists will be able to rent individual studio space for a wide range of creative practice, from visual and interdisciplinary work to traditional and endangered craft skills. Plans also include open studios, workshops, memberships, and community partnerships.
Emma Souter, creative director at Graft, said: “It’s an exciting time; we will develop into what those joining us help us to become.”
Another section of the town hall was completed in January, and is now home to Link, a youth hub run by Community Action Isle of Wight’s Bay Youth Project. The programme can provide more than 200 young people a week, with sports, study sessions, and a sound studio, among the facilities on offer.
Rufus Pickles - Local Democracy Reporter