Bankley Studios and Gallery

Bankley Studios and Gallery is an artist-run gallery space and artists studios in Levenshulme, Manchester. 

It’s home to over 30 artists’ studios, working across a range of disciplines including painting, textiles, photography, installation, sculpture, ceramics and mixed media. The studios are spread across three floors with a gallery space on the first floor.

Bankley describes itself as a supportive, community-driven space run by volunteers “to make the place happen”, which formally became a cooperative in 1998 so there is a long history attached to the space. The joint energy of the studios’ resident artists brings momentum to the regular programme of events, with new exhibitions opening roughly every month. Often the shows feature works by the residents but you’ll also find an annual open call and open studio weekends, when the public are invited (and encouraged) to come and have a nosey around, chat with the artists and learn more about their process.

The gallery itself is a white cube located in Bankley Mill, a large, old, red-brick building, which, as is often the case with artist-led galleries, doesn’t give much away from the outside. Once you’re in though, you’ll get a taste for that friendly community which Bankley prides itself on having, and the flurry of creativity activity.

The gallery has fairly irregular opening hours that depend on what’s currently on so make sure you check the website for the latest word on what’s on and when you can visit.