Many of you will be too young to remember Gibraltar’s old Irish Town Police Station. But for those who do, you may be surprised to learn that it’s now a vibrant space for contemporary art called Art Space.

Siloed offices and public counters have been swapped for bright open-plan spaces. Its magnolia walls that once displayed official notices are now home to colourful, original pieces of art. The space does retain some of its original features though…I caught up with Paul Sharpley, the Curator of Artspace, to find out what these are…

Tell me a little about yourself and the team behind Art Space

I have been a collector of art for a number of years and have had a long time desire to have my own gallery. After spending a number of years travelling to Gibraltar I knew it had to be here. Gibraltar is a very special and strategic location. An Iberian peninsula bordering the south of Spain which has access to so many hidden gems along the Spanish coast.

We have an amazing team who have all come together to create not only a professional look for Art Space but all have a passion for art and culture. The team being made up of Ana (Partnership & Engagement Developer), Tamara (Magazine Editor), Phoebe & Kassidy (Art Consultants) and Millie (Social Media Manager) all have their individual roles to play within art space and all of our exciting future projects we are planning both in and out of the gallery space.

What’s the reception been like from the community?
The reception by both the people and businesses of Gibraltar has been far better than I could have ever imagined and we already feel a part of the community. We aim to add a different layer to the cultural space and further foment and support what already exists both in and out of Gibraltar.

Do you specialise in any particular medium?
We are primarily a Contemporary Art Gallery with a mix of different styles and techniques. Our aim is to mix both established artists with lesser known artists. We have thoroughly enjoyed featuring the many Limited Editions of Christian Hook & Tony Hinchliffe as well as Original artworks by artists such as Nana Artamonova and Samuel Thomas.

Could you elaborate on the concept behind the gallery?
We have split the gallery into two. One part will show monthly exhibitions either by a single artist or a theme to the art displayed. The second part of the gallery which includes the two cells will be used to show a variety of pieces by different artists. Our aim is to offer art to all, and have art which sells from a starting figure of £295.00.

We have tried to make the gallery a relaxing environment and not an intimidating one, by playing music to soften the silence and a simple smile upon entry by our Art Consultants. We are happy for people to just come in and take a look even if they’re not ready yet to make a purchase.

What can we expect from you over the coming weeks/months?
We have several exhibitions coming up inside the gallery including a local art fair in June along with a summer exhibition and a solo exhibition by Samuel Thomas. In August we are hosting an International Contemporary Art Fair onboard the Sunborn Yacht Hotel which will bring art to Gibraltar by some well known International artists as well as showcasing art by local Gibraltarian artists.

Contact Details:
art@theart.space
Art Space Gibraltar (+350) 200 17777
International calls (+44)2078747202
WhatsApp (+350) 5600 2502