Interim Spaces has worked with Shepton Mallet Town Council to create The Artistry, a new shop showcasing the work of over 30 local artists and makers, at 37 Town Street, Shepton Mallet.
The vibrant new venture is part of the town council’s pop-up shop initiative, aimed at boosting economic regeneration and attracting more visitors to the High Street. Following a decision last year to fund a pop-up space, the council has provided financial backing to cover the rent of the retail unit, along with an initial grant to help the new shop get up and running. 
To deliver the project, Shepton Mallet Town Council appointed Interim Spaces, known for their successful work delivering artist studios and a retail incubator in the town. Interim Spaces has converted the formerly vacant into a vibrant creative retail space run collectively by local makers.
Featuring handmade homewares, artwork, jewellery, ceramics, textiles and more, The Artistry offers a fresh model of high street trading: a regularly open retail shop with a burgeoning programme of exciting and accessible workshops for the local community.
“The Artistry is both a shop and a platform for local talent, managed by a core group of local makers, and a way to encourage more footfall down to Town Street,” said Dan Simon, Director of Interim Spaces.
“We’re proud to be working with Shepton Mallet Town Council launching another project in our town that’s rooted in creativity, community and practical regeneration.”
A spokesman for the town council added: “This project is a key part of our wider efforts to support the local economy and breathe new life into our High Street.
“By investing in pop-up spaces like this, we’re creating opportunities for local makers to grow their businesses while enhancing the vibrancy and appeal of Shepton’s town centre for residents and visitors alike.”
The pop-up will be launched at 4pm on Thursday, July 17, and anyone is welcome to go along to explore the shop, meet the makers and celebrate Shepton’s growing creative scene, with refreshments kindly sponsored by Brothers Drinks.
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