After 25 years in the business, artrepublic is expanding. The gallery on Bond Street – which is known for showing artists such as Banksy, Peter Blake and Damien Hirst – has taken over the space next door. We went down to the launch to speak with owner Lawrence Alkin and gallery director Acushla Bennett about the new space and plans for the future.
Lawrence has been in the art business for 38 years and had a gallery in Ireland for ten years before life found him setting up in Brighton. His aim has always been to “demystify” art and make it accessible for everyone, and he has big plans to change the space for artrepublic moving forwards: “Having the double space means that if we want to have an exhibition we can close one side and still continue with business. Up to now we couldn’t do that. There’s now more space to show artists, and we’re planning do some children’s art clubs and artist evenings. The plan is to do a lot more events, so it can become more of an art space. We’re stepping up a gear.”
Acushla Bennett, the gallery director said: “We’re really excited. Having been here for 25 years, we’ve expanded into the space next door which means we will be able to do a lot, show all these originals and have a much more versatile space. We’re going to be doing a whole schedule of shows throughout the year, different things from kids’ events to live screen printing releases, screen printing classes and original shows. There’s going to be a lot going on!”
And indeed, there are several events already planned for June…
June 3rd – artrepublic’s yearly Art Yard Sale at Jubilee Square gives everyone the chance to buy (and own) original, affordable limited-edition artworks direct from the artists who create them.
June 16th – Starting at 10am, the gallery will host a Drawing Club For Kids with Pure Evil, (while parents can enjoy breakfast and mimosas courtesy of Bubble, who are sponsoring the event).
June 21st – artrepublic is bringing the Spark to Brighton for the first time ever! A night of live storytelling and fun this will be the first evening event hosted by artrepublic.
June 29th – At 5pm there will be a live screen printing event (artist TBA). A chance to see your print being made live in the gallery and signed by the artist.