Outer Spaces

About

Artist Studio, Outer Spaces, Glasgow
Studio of Artist Beth Shapeero, Outer Spaces, Sauchiehall St, Glasgow

Outer Spaces was set up in 2021, in response to the economic and social impact of the pandemic on artists’ practice and livelihoods. The unprecedented number of empty commercial properties that became available at the time inspired hope in our founder Shân Edwards who saw an opportunity for collaboration and cultural renewal. Since then we have matched artists with vacant commercial property on a scale that has not existed in Scotland before. 

Support for 900+ artists in 120+ spaces throughout 13 local authorities in Scotland

Our Mission

Outer Spaces is a charity collaborating with artists, arts organisations and property owners to activate the nation’s empty commercial spaces.


We support artists locked out of unaffordable spaces and oversubscribed opportunities. 


At Outer Spaces, our network can access free meanwhile space and development opportunities. Our programme explores new models and directions for curating, commissioning and collaborative working. We create the conditions for artists to take the lead and give cultural networks the opportunity to thrive. 

Our Values

Support

We nurture creativity through opportunity. Our radically inclusive approach removes financial barriers and empowers artists to expand their practice.


Sustain

We recognise the importance of artists in a just society and value the role of community as part of artistic practice.


Accelerate

We create the conditions for artists to take the lead and give cultural networks the opportunity to thrive.

Outer Spaces | Henderson Row, Edinburgh

Trustees

Staff

Shân Edwards: Director and CEO

Sarah-Manning Shaw: Deputy Director

Colin Farquhar: Operations Director

Paul Thomson: Business Development Director

Meg James: Spaces Manager

Lois Green: Spaces Manager, Glasgow & West

Samm Anga: Operations Coordinator

Imogen Lee Allen: Spaces Coordinator

Khadea Santi: Communities Coordinator

Helen Deevy: Communications Manager

Mike Benson

Jacqui Burke

Murray Steele