“We want to ensure Manchester remains an inclusive cultural capital” Free to use artist hub will open in 2025

Manchester’s artistic landscape is about to be redefined with the arrival of HOME Arches, a brand-new, free-to-use creative space dedicated to supporting artists from all disciplines.

HOME has just announced that work is underway on this world-class development, which is set to open in early 2025, coinciding with HOME’s tenth anniversary.

HOME Arches

Spanning three railway arches on Whitworth Street West, HOME Arches will offer 258 sqm of cutting-edge, flexible studio and workshop space to nurture the next generation of artists in Manchester and beyond.

The development is a collaboration between HOME and Jon Matthews Architects, and will transform what was once a forgotten part of the city’s industrial past into a dynamic hub of creativity.

“HOME Arches is a game-changer for Manchester’s creative community,” said Karen O’Neill, CEO of HOME.

“This new space will be a place where artists can experiment, create, and collaborate, all while being supported by HOME’s renowned Artist Development programmes. It’s an exciting next step in HOME’s mission to ensure Manchester remains a vibrant and inclusive cultural capital.”

Artist-focussed spaces in Manchester

The Arches will feature a range of artist-focused spaces including co-working areas, studio spaces, residency opportunities, and technical support. Artists from underrepresented groups—including those from the Global Majority, d/Deaf and disabled artists, and those from lower socio-economic backgrounds—will make up 50% of the users of the space, ensuring that HOME Arches is as diverse and inclusive as the city itself.

One of the standout features of HOME Arches is the exhibition windows that will line the arches, offering an exciting new space for public art displays.

These large windows will serve as a dynamic gallery, showcasing a range of works from sculpture to digital art, visible to an estimated 750,000 pedestrians passing through the city every week.

Loran Dunn, film producer

Loran Dunn, film producer and artist panel member, praises the potential of the space: “HOME Arches will provide artists with ownership over professional, high-quality space to create and exhibit their work.

“It’s a unique opportunity to develop groundbreaking ideas right here in Manchester, which could have a global impact.”

The project is made possible through the generosity of several key funders, including the UK Government, Manchester City Council, The Wolfson Foundation, and The Foyle Foundation, alongside many individual donors and supporters.

Their combined investment will ensure that HOME Arches provides over 5,000 free hours of creative space each year for artists and creative freelancers, helping to address the growing demand for affordable, accessible workspace in the city.

Jon Matthews Architects

Jon Matthews Architects, who led the design of the project, explained: “We wanted to maintain the character of the railway arches while creating something functional, beautiful, and inspiring.

“The result is a flexible, acoustically separated space that will encourage creativity and collaboration.”

At the heart of the project is the Artist Panel, a diverse group of local creatives who have worked closely with HOME to shape the design and function of the new spaces. The panel includes theatre makers, visual artists, filmmakers, and performers such as Afreena Islam-Wright, Venessa Scott, and Loran Dunn, all of whom are passionate about making sure that the space serves the needs of the artistic community.

Garry Bridges, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council

Councillor Garry Bridges, Deputy Leader of Manchester City Council, expressed his excitement for the project: “The growth of Manchester’s cultural sector is integral to the city’s success. By investing in spaces like HOME Arches, we’re ensuring that our creative community continues to thrive and that artists have the resources they need to grow and innovate.”

The HOME Arches Artist Development Hub will provide space for a variety of artistic disciplines, including theatre, film, and visual arts. It is expected to become a vital resource for the city, supporting over 1,000 artists annually as part of HOME’s established artist development programme.

Whether you’re a theatre maker, a visual artist, or a filmmaker, HOME Arches will offer a unique space for you to explore, create, and connect with other like-minded individuals. It’s a place where ideas can come to life, where boundaries are pushed, and where creativity knows no limits.al

Stay tuned for more updates as HOME Arches prepares to open in early 2025, and find out how you can be part of this exciting new chapter in Manchester’s cultural evolution.

How to donate to Home Arches

For more information, please visit HOME’s website by clicking here. If you’d like to contact HOME’s Artist Development team, please email [email protected].

Supporters of the project can also donate online by clicking here