Encouraging ‘meanwhile’ spaces in Lewes District
With a number of shops lying empty in Lewes and elsewhere, The Makers Directory is encouraging more letting agents and landlords to grant meanwhile use to spaces to showcase the work of local artists and creatives, as co-founder Corina Fletcher Buckwell explains.
The Makers Directory is continuing to showcase some of the incredible local artists and makers in an unused window on Station Street in Lewes and we want to showcase as many Makers Directory members as possible before the building is sold, so why not take a look?
During the Artwave Festival, the Paddock Art Studios took over from the previous artist Katalina Caliendo and her beautiful ceramic vessels, and afterwards we will welcome a new installation from Judith Alder.
This opportunity has only been made possible thanks to Visit Lewes and the letting agents Graves Son and Pilcher. We are hoping that the work we’re doing together is going to create a good enough model to encourage other agents and landlords across the district to grant meanwhile use to other spaces.
When shops and offices fall vacant, they can drag down the atmosphere of an entire street. But offering these spaces to local makers and artists on a temporary basis is a smart move for towns that want to stay lively and relevant. Far from being a stopgap, this “meanwhile use” creates ripples of economic and cultural value.
Keeps areas lively: Instead of vacant, boarded-up spaces, there’s activity that makes the place feel more welcoming and safer.
Fuels the local economy: Makers’ markets, pop-up galleries and artist studios draw people into town and give nearby businesses a welcome boost.
Incubates talent: Affordable short-term space allows small creative ventures to take root, test ideas and grow into established enterprises that might one day fill permanent premises.
Builds community pride: Local residents don’t just walk past — they get involved. Pop-up exhibitions, workshops and performances create a sense that the town belongs to its people.
The Makers Directory mission is to encourage people to discover, value and buy from the local artists and makers in this famously creative part of the world. Learn more at themakersdirectory.co.uk. If you’re interested in providing space to promote and showcase local creative talent, email us at
