PINK

PINK is many things – artist studios, gallery spaces, an event venue and a site for collaboration and exchange. Most importantly though, PINK is needed – a place that can respond to the needs of the local creative community with its strong ethos of openness and curiosity.

Founded in 2019 by Katy Morrison, today PINK is home to 26 artist studios (with more coming soon) and a busy schedule of events, from wine tastings and gigs to experimental art exhibitions.

At the time of founding, Katy was frustrated by the art scene in Manchester and the sense that opportunities created more competition than collaboration. Having worked in hospitality for many years prior, she used the experience to create a welcoming space that sensed the needs of those who would pass through (and often stick around – there is a long waiting list for their studio spaces) and deliver projects inspired by them.

In formal terms, PINK is a discursive curatorial project focusing on interdisciplinary research. In practice it’s a wonderfully friendly space that you want to come back to again and again – it attracts a wide audience too, with loyal fans in its home of Stockport and further afield.

There are no volunteers at PINK – a conscious decision made with the aim of supporting the art economy and everybody involved, from invigilators to friends who help to build a bar. It’s an admirable loyalty to their ethos, particularly in a difficult climate for grassroots art organisations and symbolises the uncompromising attitude to building a fairer system within the arts.

Katy describes her approach to working with artists as “critical-intimate”, one that focuses on professional development but also on their specific needs and provides an open space to experiment. It’s very much a project created with passion and a love that percolates through every aspect of its operations.

Check PINK’s Instagram page for updates on upcoming projects and events, and take a look at our Culture Guides for news on art shows and other events in the space.