A 'fantastic' new arts hub complete with a free community library, performance space and what is believed to be Lancashire’s smallest art gallery is set to open inside Blackburn Market this weekend.
Created by Blackburn-based arts organisation Culturapedia in partnership with Blackburn Market, Blackburn with Darwen Library Services, Blackburn BID, and Arts Council England, the new space aims to bring art, literature, and live performance into the heart of the town centre.
The venue will officially launch on Saturday, July 25, marking the start of a programme of free family-friendly performances, workshops, and exhibitions throughout the summer.
Visitors will be able to browse books in the community library, relax in dedicated reading areas, take part in artist-led creative workshops, and enjoy regular live performances.
The space also features Lancashire’s smallest art gallery, showcasing the work of artists with connections to Blackburn.
The inaugural exhibition has been created by Amelia Riley, who recently graduated from Blackburn College with a degree in Fine Art.
Culturapedia is also inviting artists with links to Blackburn to apply for future month-long exhibitions in the gallery.
The launch event will include a performance by Saboteur Award-winning poet Dommy B at 1pm, kicking off his summer poetry trail across Blackburn.
Robert Howell, co-director of Culturapedia, said: “Having worked in Blackburn Market over the past four years, Culturapedia has built connections and fostered relationships with thousands of local people.
“We’re eager to launch this next chapter and create even more encounters between the people of Blackburn and amazing artists from Lancashire and beyond.”
Councillor Phil Riley, leader of Blackburn with Darwen Council, welcomed the new addition to the town centre.
He said: “This is yet another fantastic resource for Blackburn, which is fast becoming the cultural hub of Lancashire.
“This is a great partnership, involving our markets and library services, Arts Council England and Culturapedia. Through initiatives like this, culture becomes part of everyday life – enriching all.”
The new venue builds on Culturapedia’s work across Lancashire, where the Blackburn-based organisation has spent years bringing professional artists and creative projects into community spaces.
A full programme of summer activities taking place at the new arts space and across Blackburn is available through the Discover Blackburn website.
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