Testing Space

As part of ‘a space’ arts Artist Resources Programme, Testing Space is a multi-functional space dedicated to facilitating creative opportunities and empowering Southampton’s artist community.

Located in the Arches Studios, ‘a space’ arts managed studio complex of 21 studios and home to a vibrant community of artists, Testing Space has been designed for visual artists and art workers living and/or working in Southampton to experiment with new work and the development of ideas. 

As a large and flexible space that offers a variety of functions and facilities, artists are able to use the Testing Space to develop and produce new works, host pop-up exhibition or event, and build meaningful connections with other studio holders and artists in the local community to make an impact on the city’s arts scene. 

Testing Space is available to SO postcode based (living or working) artists and creatives, and can be booked for up to 21 days at no cost.

You can download the Testing Space brochure and find out more about the space here – Testing Space Brochure

 

Facilities & Benefits

Testing Space offers a number of facilities and benefits which artists can make use of during their time at the studios.

• A vibrant studios complex with other visual artists
• Accessible toilet
• Small kitchenette 
• Furniture including a desk, tables, chairs, and easels
• Wi-fi access and electric points
• Projectors and screens
• Ramp for disabled access
• Hidden storage area
• Heating/air conditioning
• Additional support from ‘a space’ arts

 

How to apply

To apply for the Testing Space, please fill out the online booking form with your name, contact details, and further information about your practice and how you intend to use the space during your booking. You can follow the link here

If you would like to make a booking using an alternative format, have any questions about Testing Space or want to arrange a visit to the space, please contact our Studios Manager Celeste at celeste@aspacearts.org.uk for further information on how we can support your application.

 

Access

As an organisation we actively look to reduce barriers for artists applying for our opportunities and commissions, and we are committed to being fair, accessible, transparent and inclusive. 

We offer a range of access support for artists, including alternative formats for information we  release and submissions we receive as well as an artist access fund; please contact us so that we can discuss your individual needs and provide appropriate support for your application or project. Please either email us on enquiries@aspacearts.org.uk or call 023 80 338 778.

 

Using the space

The Testing Space is a flexible and versatile space that can be used to suit a variety of artist needs and requirements. Previous bookings have included a pop-up exhibition space, an artists studio, a workshop space, a photography and filming studio, a meeting venue, and an artists shop. We welcome all ideas on how you would like to use the space to further develop your practice and we have a variety of facilities and benefits to ensure you have a supportive and enriching experience.