All the best! New chiefs at the helm of gallery
ORMSKIRK’S Chapel Gallery has reopened under new, independent management and is providing a space for the best of Ormskirk’s talent and produce.
Artist and musician Ian Brownbill and pub specialist Amanda Abbott are now running the arts centre and plan to bring a host of exciting artistic events to Ormskirk.
The Chapel Gallery was previously run by the council but the authority sought someone to take it over last year and Ian and Amanda say their aim is to create a “welcoming space for the arts and a social environment for all ages”.
As part of their desire to work with local independents, the Chapel has signed on partner brands such as Mr Thompson’s bakery which is now serving its cakes, traybakes and gingerbread from its new home at The Chapel café bar.
Ian has previously revived the world’s oldest passenger station at Edge Hill into an arts hub when he was director at ‘Metal’, while Amanda is known locally for transforming a succession of pubs and has a passion for local food, craft coffee, real ales and artisan gins.
Ian said: “The Chapel is a great building; we are trying to maximise the potential of each space. The Gallery will remain as a home for dio with a sprung floor that also has exhibitions and the development of the flexibility to host larger events ideas with the local community. such as concerts, film showings,
“The café bar has a brilliant inti- interactive arts and indoor markets.” mate stage for musicians and will also The Chapel Gallery gift shop feature special pop-up installations. remains at the heart of The Chapel The first floor is a dance and yoga stu- and is now run by Lancashire Makers’, stocking locally crafts, art & design.
Featuring the work of its members and guest artists from around the North West, the shop offers a range of unique gifts.
Ian continued: “Everyone involved here pride themselves on being welcoming and we all have a shared vision, which is to make The Chapel a special place to visit - it’s worth coming just for the amazing cakes!”
With Government restrictions still being observed, the Chapel is open for socially distanced dance and yoga classes hosted by partner brand Lunar Studios, while the café bar is open with reduced hours and special protective measures in place. The music and visual arts programme will resume as soon as possible. handmade