Background to Artlandish
During 2020 Hereford Community Land Trust (HCLT) undertook a survey of open spaces (often car parks) and buildings that appeared under-used within the historic core of Hereford City, to see whether any might lend themselves to adaptation to provide affordable housing. One idea emanating from this was for an Artists and Maker’s Quarter in the Aubrey / Berrington Street areas of the city that would also provide the opportunity for providing affordable housing.
A survey we carried out (that will be updated during the early part of 2025) showed considerable interest in this idea. HCLT then investigated two options for permanent artists and makers premises (workspaces, communal equipment and exhibition space) in the Berrington / Aubrey Street area, but neither came to fruition, though one potential scheme remains in limbo.
It was then suggested we investigate a project that utilised empty shops, and so Artlandish was born, its name chosen by those who got involved early on in the project, a project made possible through funding from the UK Government’s Herefordshire UKSPF Cultural Development Grant Scheme; Hereford City Council, The Elmley Foundation, The Mumford Memorial Trust and Herefordshire Community Foundation
Artlandish’s Aim
As soon as we can after the 30th March we will be producing a report about the project and indicating how it could continue based either in permanent facilities or on a roving basis using premises provided on a temporary basis.
We hope to show how such a project increases opportunities for artists and makers in the city and the county; how such a project could help increase footfall in the city centre; how it might help combat loneliness and associated mental health issues; how it could provide starter bases for people completing courses at HCA; how it makes the city more attractive to those thinking of moving this way for work.