NATIONAL: A new initiative has been established to encourage the creative use of empty shop spaces and to reinvigorate regional cities with fashion and culture.
Called Empty Spaces, the scheme is funded by Arts NSW and is led by the University of Technology Sydney. It centres on a website, emptyspaces.culturemap.org.au, with information for community leaders on how empty retail spaces can be transformed. The site offers case studies of empty space initiatives and information on the planning and legal requirements involved.
Launched this week by the NSW Minister for the Arts Virginia Judge, the project is based on a similar scheme called Renew Newcastle, which saw the city revitalised with temporary shops, artists galleries and studios.
“Renew Newcastle has brought colour and life to the city’s heart, providing a focal point for artists, visitors and the local community,” she said. “This has inspired other towns to look at what they can do to support the creative industries.”
CHEAP MONDAY: Fan of pop up stores.
