A Somerset charity has been granted use of a vacant office block building, owned by Somerset Council, to turn into Shepton Mallet’s "first dedicated artist studio facility".

This includes offering 24/7 studios to artists for only £1 per square foot per month, including all bills.

Interim Spaces, who first approached Somerset Council in 2023 to use the former Registry Office for Births, Deaths, and Marriages, has transformed the property into a vibrant hub for creativity.

The building, closed since 2017 (except for a brief reopening in 2020 as a Covid walk-in centre), is now home to 15 artists and makers from Shepton Mallet and surrounding towns.

Due to its popularity, demand has extended as far afield as Frome and Bristol.

The new tenants include:

Tasha Angell, Metalsmith @tashaangelljewellery

Alexandra Drysdale, Artist @alexandra_drysdale

Jake Cook, Graphic Designer @cookin.pixels

Jack Greenwood, Artist @jackgreenwoodart

Lucia Harley, Artist @lucia.harley8

Jason Nosworthy, Artist @jpnfineart

Amalia Page, Jeweller @apageofsilver

Jessica and Nova Mattock, Artists @jessicamallock

Miriam Sheppard, Artist @miriamsheppard

Katrina and MacKenzie Sheldon, Jewellers @katrilee_

Caroline Slater, Artist @carofineart

Emily Stephens, Textile and Seamstress @darngoodstuff

Lowri Whiskerd, Artist @lowriwhiskerd.studio

The new community was delighted to have the support of Showerings, a national brewer based in Shepton Mallet, who provided Babycham and their new range of premium Brothers cider for a painting and decorating day, with a palette-load of paint very generously donated by Farrow & Ball.

Cllr Federica Smith-Roberts,  lead member for Communities and Culture, said: “I am delighted that we have been able to support this venture which aligns so well with our cultural priorities - celebrating Somerset, supporting our economy, and connecting our communities through accessible art and culture. Our collaboration with Interim Spaces is a wonderful example of how working with partners can enhance what already exists, enriching our lives by recognising the impact and benefits of culture, while fostering a sense of economic prosperity and pride.”

Dan Simon, director of Interim Spaces, said: "We are truly delighted to boost the local artist scene in Shepton Mallet with these new studios, where artists can work together, innovate, and grow. Somerset Council understands the urgent need to create cultural opportunities here, and by granting us use of the former office block, we are unlocking potential for many local artists and designers who were previously working from home. We are excited to see how these studios catalyse more culture in our wonderful town.”

Jack Greenwood, artist at Commercial Road Studios, said: "Commercial Road Studios has been an incredible opportunity for me. Having access to a local, affordable studio in Shepton Mallet is something I never dreamed would happen and has already benefited me hugely. I’ve been able to get more visibility for my work through studio visits, offer art lessons, and it’s been great for my mental health and confidence as an artist to be out of the house and working in a dedicated space. It’s invaluable to be part of a thriving art community. It has given my art career a boost and a new direction, and I think it’s a great thing for Shepton Mallet as a whole."