Saan1

Saan1 is an independent art and community space in Manchester’s Northern Quarter. 

To say Saan1’s programme is a busy one would be a massive understatement – there is a constant stream of exhibitions from pop-up shows and longer displays showcasing larger bodies of work, workshops and cultural get-togethers. 

Saan1 welcomes all creatives, but it is particularly popular among emerging and mid-career artists. In fact, the gallery prides itself on their openness – the programme is not led by the organisers but by the artists themselves. There is no manifesto either, only a space to be used as the community sees fit, supported by guidance on the practical aspects of organising an exhibition.

Owner Ken and his wife prefer to sidestep the spotlight and let the art do the talking but their story reveals a little about their approach to working with creatives. Originally from Hong Kong, they moved to the UK a few years ago and quickly noticed a community need for a space to showcase local artists’ work. So they quickly set about creating a solution and Saan1 was born. 

With high numbers of people emigrating from Hong Kong in the years 2021-22, many of the gallery’s early shows attracted artists from the ESEA (East and Southeast Asian) communities and directly engaged with politics. Saan1 were happy to provide a platform for all forms of expression and became a popular destination through word of mouth. Since then, the gallery has held varied displays, from ceramic installations to abstract paintings, drawing classes, textile displays and performances involving Lego. 

The space itself takes up three floors of a townhouse down a quiet side street in the Northern Quarter. It can be a little tricky to find because it doesn’t shout about its existence. Instead, each exhibition is marked by a sign hanging above the front door – another indication that Saan1 are the facilitators, not the focus, of the events. 

It’s a quiet, meditative space that you won’t want to rush through. It’s worth visiting on a regular basis too, because you’re guaranteed to find something new each time you pop in.