Bringing new life to a neglected part of Clonmel
Clonmel company Camida is supporting a new platform for South Tipperary artists
A new lease of life is to be brought to the Market Place in Clonmel with the opening of one of the vacant units.
Clonmel-based Camida and David Anchell are supporting the initiative, which will see the unit, which was formerly a book shop, used as an outlet for RATS (Random artists Tipperary South) as an exhibition space and coffee outlet.
The new venture will open next Tuesday.
“It was an opportunity to bring new life to a much neglected part of Clonmel centre, something Camida is forever striving for,” said David Anchell.
“The establishment of the venue is being totally sponsored by Camida, and the lease, rates, etc., by me personally. We are hoping the income we derive might one day make it self-sufficient.For the moment, I have committed to cover costs for 4 years,” said David Anchell.
David Anchell said he had the idea of opening a permanent Clonmel premises for RATS that was to show and sell the artist's work but also provide a place for artists to meet each other and indeed the public. It will sell artists' work but also coffee and snacks to increase and enhance the social gatherings.
“I have a good friend, Geraldine O’Donnell, who is wheelchair bound and living at 22 Emmett Street.On calling to visit her on the way to my office - just a day or two after conceiving the idea of a permanent venue, I spotted the Market Place premises, previously a coffee shop and a book shop, was available to lease,” said David Anchell.
David Anchell said it was perfect for several reasons.The size and double shopfront aspect was perfect, and there was a reasonable footfall because of its proximity to the Library and County Council offices.
“Its proximity to Geraldine’s house would be a boon to her, bringing a new opportunity for her social interaction right on her doorstep, and she misses the coffee shop there,” said David Anchell.
RATS (Random Artists Tipperary South) was formed nearly four years ago to give an alternative outlet for local visual artists ,primarily paintings, sculpture but also artistic upholstery and stained glass.
The group has been an unexpected success, responsible for several exhibitions including one in Choggia near Venice.
The group has published a book of artists' work and has been ever-present at WhenNextWeMeet festivals.
RATS, sponsored by Camida, now has about 20-25 members.
“Our group's aim is to hold this space and make it community-based with people coming through our doors to see a variety of types of works, sit and enjoy a coffee/tea with a little treat and have a relaxed experience surrounded by creativity,” said group member Paulette O’Donovan.