Mossley hub offers free workspace to creatives of all kinds

A buzzing artists' hub at the heart of Mossley is offering complimentary studio space to creatives of all kinds.

Every Wednesday from 1-3pm, The Vale opens its doors free of charge to sewers, writers, painters, makers, musicians, film makers and every other kind of creative.

Whatever kind of space you need to rehearse, think, practice or experiment, the Mossley arts centre, which is based in Vale Mill, off Micklehurst Road, says it can accommodate your needs.

Regular Pat Baker uses the space to 'think, plan, make notes, doodle, draw'. 

"Being there is conducive to creative thought," she said.

"You’re aware there’s a buzz in the air: creative talent and ideas going on all the time; always the possibility of bumping into someone for a chat.

"Things going on in the sewing room, office and other studios.

"There's always a hum of activity."

Pat also praises the facilities, saying: "There's a great kitchen. The toilets are always clean and tidy.

"It's lovely to wander outside too.

"The developing gardens and sculptures are wonderful."

Katie McCall, a writer, said: ‘I used the space at The Vale to work on my novel.

"As someone who lives locally, it was so helpful to have a room to use to concentrate on my project; having a change of environment and receiving such a warm welcome made such a positive difference to my writing and inspired some new ideas for my book. 

"Writing can be lonely sometimes, and it gave me a real boost to speak to the staff and volunteers working at The Vale and to chat about the activities going on there. 

"Places such as this are important because they foster a sense of community, reduce social isolation and facilitate creative collaboration which would not happen elsewhere."

Amelia Bayliss, General Manager at The Vale, said: "Whether you’re a sewer needing a machine to work on, a sculptor searching for some work space, a musician in need of a quiet room or a henna artist hoping for somewhere to practice, we’d love to host you free of charge on Wednesday afternoons.

"Booking ahead is advised.

“Creativity thrives where there is community, and many local people have already found that spending time together each week has given them a creative boost.”

The Vale also has spaces of all sizes for private hire on other days of the week, for rehearsals, meetings and workspace.

Community rates are available for local groups.

The arts centre offers a year round international live music programme, Carnival percussion, brass and dance classes, free weekend family crafts activities, occasional film screenings, environmental activities and more.

Email: hello@the-vale.co.uk or call 01457 238 089 to reserve a free Wednesday afternoon spot or to find out more about space hire at other times.

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