Co-authored by Doctoral Researcher Hayley Reid, Senior Lecturer in Organisational Psychology Dr Malcolm Patterson and Dr Andreana Drencheva of King’s College London, the chapter identifies the different ways that temporary art spaces are configured in the UK, and provides a theoretical framework to understand how these spaces are used by artists and the wider community. Hayley Reid’s research interest in exploring artist’s wellbeing and temporary art spaces comes from her ten years of experience working with and supporting artists in the community.
The chapter raises awareness of vacant buildings repurposed as temporary art venues while awaiting new commercial tenants, focussing on the experience of the artists who occupy these spaces in the 'meanwhile'. These spaces offer a cost-effective alternative for artists in need of studio or exhibition space, allowing them to retain their artistic identity without the financial strain of traditional galleries or long-term leases.
Additionally, the chapter provides a theoretical framework to better understand how these temporary art spaces function, both for the artists who occupy them and the communities they serve. The chapter concludes that an increase in affordable temporary art spaces would revitalise high streets by increasing footfall and would benefit artists in retaining their artistic identity. The framework developed can be used in future research and can help design better temporary spaces for artists and their ways of working.
Understanding how different methods and environments influence the ways in which we work and feel about work is a core part of IWP research. This excellent book chapter tackles a neglected area with regards to artists and provides valuable theoretical and practical insights into their working practices and community engagement in temporary spaces.
Professor Kamal Birdi
Head of The Institute of Work Psychology (IWP)
