Black Shed Artspace
In the heart of Waipu, amidst scenic landscapes and the town’s welcoming charm, Black Shed Artspace has made a grand entrance as the region’s newest creative hub.
This innovative artspace - a shared working environment and gallery - is more than just a building; it’s an inspiring community initiative designed to foster and celebrate the arts in all forms. Set in a beautifully repurposed black shed and sharing the site with Little Red Coffee at 7 Cove Road, Black Shed Artspace brings a fresh presence to Waipu’s creative scene.
Founded with a vision to offer local artists a dedicated place to work, connect, and showcase their works to the community and visitors, Back Shed Artspace currently houses Ceramicist Claire Nicholls, Illustrator Evan Heasman, Painter Laura Currie and Creative Development Professional Sarah Crowe. The layout thoughtfully provides separate workspaces for the artists alongside a gallery that showcases a rotating selection of works from the onsite artists as well as other amazing Northland artists. These shared spaces foster an environment of collaboration and mutual inspiration, while the gallery invites the community and visitors to experience diverse artistic visions.
Beyond the gallery and workspaces, Black Shed Artspace hosts a dynamic range of creative workshops that promise to enrich Waipu’s arts scene. Claire Nicholls is currently running ceramic workshops for both kids and adults, with a variety of diverse workshops planned for 2025. These sessions cater to all skill levels, from seasoned creators to absolute beginners. For those who have always wanted to explore their creativity, Black Shed’s workshops provide a welcoming entry point. For more experienced artists, these sessions serve as opportunities to refine existing skills or explore new ones.
Black Shed Artspace’s founders believe art should be accessible to all and are committed to offering programs that appeal to a broad audience. “We want Black Shed to be a place where everyone feels welcome - a place where the creative spirit of Waipu and beyond can flourish,” they shared, expressing their vision for the artspace as both a community touchstone and a beacon of creativity.
In addition to workshops and exhibitions, Black Shed Artspace aims to be a vibrant gathering space. The founders envision artists and visitors mingling over coffee, conversations flowing between gallery exhibitions and hands-on creative sessions, inviting both locals and tourists to be part of Waipu’s growing art scene.
With its doors now open, Black Shed Artspace is on a mission to make art an accessible, integral part of life in Waipu. In this creative refuge, Waipu’s artists have found a home, and the whole community stands to benefit.
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