IMPORTANT NEWS ABOUT THE SPACE AT RIDGE ST NORTH SYDNEY

IMPORTANT NEWS from me

As we get close to launching our final show of 2022, it’s with much sadness that I let you know this will be the last Christmas exhibition in the Ridge Street space.
 
After an amazing 5 years, I’ll be closing the Project Space next year.  
My arrangement with North Sydney Council is up on 31st March 2023 and it will then transition to a commercial lease.
The numbers don’t add up, so I’ve made the difficult decision to call it a day. 
I want to thank you for being such a crucial part of the Ridge Street community and story.
 
What’s happening
 
I understand that this might come as a bit of a shock – it’s been extremely difficult for me to write this email – but my circumstances and that of the space have changed. 

As you know, I work a little differently to traditional studio artists. I’ve always seen what I do at Ridge Street as a core element of my participatory creative arts practice. The provision of this space by North Sydney council has also provided the opportunity for a small income to offset my community and professional engagement work. 
 
It’s never been primarily a retail space or a money maker, but the economic realities of running the space are real.
 
What this means for you
 
The Remade – ReLOVED exhibition (on show from 1 – 24 December) will be the last curated group show in the space. So let’s make it a BIG send off. Let your friends and family know to come and see the show and buy handmade and local this year! I’ll also be making a participatory artwork from 15th Feb to 15th March with closing drinks 15th March, 6 – 8pm.


Moving forward, the online store will be open 24/7.
I’ll be working from my studio in Lane Cove, which will be open by appointment. I’ll also be cooking up workshop ideas and pop-up shows. I’ll keep you up to date.
 
For me to have the space cleared by the end of March, I’ll be slowly packing up and returning work from the beginning of March. So there are still plenty of opportunities to support local handmade.

What we’ve achieved
 
As I look back, I’m so proud of what’s been achieved in this space in 5 years

By the end of 2022, I’ll have: 
– Curated or administered 51 solo or group exhibitions
– Hosted an additional 27 community engagement events (artist process demonstrations, repair cafes, craft and coffee events and more)
– Provided professional development/mentorship to 12 emerging creatives through my official participation with the UNSWAD internship program. 

The space also currently provides an outlet for 20 contemporary jewellery and object makers.

I’m sure there’ll be other opportunities to contribute to the creative texture of Sydney/Australia in the future. 
At this stage, I am not sure what this might look like. But am always on the lookout for ways I can work with other artists and engage the community. I’m also planning a final send-off before the doors are closed.

Lots of love
Bridget