A new artist development hub called HOME Arches has been unveiled in Manchester, located under one of the city’s busiest railway lines on Whitworth Street West. The £3.5 million project aims to support local creatives by offering 5,000 hours of free making, studio, and development space each year. Funded partly through the government’s Levelling Up fund, the facility has transformed three heritage railway arches into a creative talent development center.
The 258 sqm facility includes co-working areas, rehearsal spaces, and a public exhibition space visible from the street. Half of the available space is dedicated to artists from underrepresented groups. The hub consists of three main spaces designed in collaboration with HOME’s ‚artist panel‘ and the wider artistic community.
The launch of HOME Arches included installations from artists Sophie Mahon and Omid As, as well as a performance by Afreena Islam-Wright during the PUSH Festival. The hub will also serve as the center’s ‚Engine Room‘, expanding its artist development program and supporting flagship events like PUSH Festival.
CEO Karen O’Neill expressed excitement about the project, highlighting Manchester’s commitment to culture and its creative community. The project is funded by various organizations and donors, with Robertson Construction North West serving as the main contractor.
Councillor Garry Bridges emphasized the importance of supporting local artists and creative communities in Manchester, stating that the HOME Arches provide vital space and new opportunities for the city’s talented creatives.