An narrow alleyway in Newark turned art gallery will see a community exhibition focused on art, nature, and wellbeing hosted there this weekend.
Narrowly Newark, on Wood Street, is run by artists, photographers and poets Sasha Silberman-Hanks and Callum Harrison.
Over June 22 and 23, the gallery will see the launch of the duo’s next exhibition, focused on where creativity meets nature, with a strong focus on mental health.
Sasha bought the property in 2022, discovering that the garden had been used as a fly-tipping site and was badly neglected.
But after a year of nurturing, the space healed, and Narrowly Newark hosted its first event in 2023.
Even though most terraced houses have a shared alleyway to the front of the house, Narrowly Newark has its own private alleyway which leads directly into a garden.
There are no fees to those interested in exhibiting their work at the gallery, but after applying, they will be notified of further information.
The money goes directly to the artist, as both Sasha and Callum believe that art should be accessible to everyone.
“We are both big advocates for mental health awareness and know the importance nature and creativity can have in achieving positive wellbeing,” Sasha said.
“We wanted to see how nature inspires artists’ wellbeing and their artwork, and we hope that by showcasing this exhibition to the community, it will encourage or inspire others to take ownership of their own wellbeing and appreciate how mindful activities can bring beauty and peace.”
On Saturday at 12.30pm, there will be a talk from the current Open Doors artists and resident Amelia Daiz, discussing a recent creative mindfulness workshop called Maps to Nowhere.
From 12.45pm to 2pm there will be poets performing, and an open mic for anyone interested in sharing on nature and wellbeing.
Following that there will be a piano performance by Newark’s Jane Olson.
On Sunday, between 12noon and 1pm there will be a nature-themed workshop hosted by Vanessa Stone, followed by music by Justyna Rozyc-Molenda.
The gallery doors will be open to the general public at no cost, from 11am until 4pm both days.
Artists interested in displaying or performing at the gallery can find out more on Narrowly Newark’s Facebook and Instagram pages as the duo often shares Open Calls for artwork, and those aged 18+ can apply.
Sasha added: “We are community-led and have recently had interest from a few different artists about themselves curating the space and running events.
“This may be the next direction Narrowly Newark takes, as we are all about encouraging creative development and building confidence.”
