"The purchase enables Space to consolidate its business model and to provide more opportunities for growth and development."
Jon Williams has lived in Christchurch for many years and following on from the earthquakes has observed first-hand how important heritage buildings are to our unique history.
"The opportunity to purchase and renovate one in the Old Town Precinct right here in Whanganui was too good to miss," he said.
The business model has enabled greater opportunities for nationwide promotion, with continued development of the Space Studio and Gallery website and social media platforms, which have performed increasingly well.
"Space continues to showcase Whanganui artists nationally, enabling us to provide
locals with the opportunity to interact with artists, as well as ensuring that a wider audience can engage with the talent that exists here," Sarah Williams said.
"Developing our events programme has been exciting, and the new venue offers us even more dynamic possibilities."
The exhibition programme will kick off in early February next year. Expressions of interest for exhibitions and pop-up shows can bee submitted now and Sarah invites interested artists to make bookings.
The studio spaces for artists will continue, with a move to the new location later this year.
"Our hope is that when people see this space alive that it might inspire others to utilise heritage spaces that the whole community can benefit from," Sarah said.