The gallery space on the first floor of The Depozitory in Ryde.
A CONVERTED church in Ryde has been transformed into a dramatic and affordable gallery and studio space for the Isle of Wight’s artists.
The Depozitory, in Nelson Street, a former Wesleyan Chapel, has played host to an array of exhibitions and performances in the past, and will now house a not-for-profit project aimed at helping the Island’s artists.
Owner Ender Ozbek developed the church and introduced six new artist studios, a workshop space, and an impressive first-floor gallery with views of The Solent. The new project, which sees the spaces offered to creative people for a small price, will be managed by Ryde artists Chris Jenkins and Joanne Hummel-Newell.
Joanne said: "One of the biggest struggles for an artist is finding the right space and environment to work, sell and reach out to audiences.
"The Depozitory will be run by artists, and we hope to provide an approachable grass-roots facility which benefits creative individuals directly."
Anyone interested in getting involved, hiring a studio, workshop or the gallery space, can e-mail Joanne or Chris at depozitory@hotmail.com
Reporter: sarab@iwcpmail.co.uk