Founded as a community interest company in 2020, Studio KIND. presents the work of both local and national, early-career and established artists through an ambitious and diverse programme of exhibitions and events, curated to excite imaginations, challenge perceptions and create connections.
Our mission is to raise the profile of contemporary art in North Devon; supporting and promoting the rapidly-growing local arts scene whilst showcasing artistic activity from around the UK. We seek to be an inclusive organisation; creating exciting opportunities for artists from all backgrounds to engage with contemporary artistic thought, and inviting a broad audience by offering a high-quality programme of innovative and dynamic exhibitions and events.
​
Studio KIND. will soon be moving to a new premises, The Corn Store, part of Barnstaple's historic Pannier Market. Home to the UNESCO biosphere, World Surfing Reserve and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, North Devon has so much to offer. Whilst taking a sustainable and sensitive approach to our unique locality, we hope to enrich the experience of visitors to the area and to encourage cultural development within our region.
Art and Culture // Showcasing artistic excellence and contemporary thought through a range of curated exhibitions, open calls and hired venue shows to create an exciting, engaging and innovative programme. We want to focus on art that is accessible for both audiences and participants; raising the profile of local artists as well as bringing cutting edge art to local audiences.
Art and Learning // By facilitating exhibitions, workshops, artist talks, performances, art socials, residencies and online activity, Studio KIND. will champion emerging talent from Devon and beyond, engaging people of all ages, abilities and cultures. Through collaboration, discussion, promotion and skill sharing, our programme of events and exhibitions will inspire and nurture creativity in a safe and inclusive environment, supporting the development and progression of artistic activity from all backgrounds.
Art and the Community // Studio KIND. is a significant cultural initiative in the heart of North Devon, exhibiting art that is reflective of the local community as well as the wider art scene in the UK. The space is available to hire for events and exhibitions led by various community groups alongside curated shows, encouraging a dialogue that is responsive to the local community. Studio KIND. will raise the profile of contemporary art in Devon, making a positive impact to the area’s artistic and cultural development and contributing to public appreciation of contemporary art.
Studio KIND. was set up as a community interest company by Richard Gregory and Laura Porter, local artists living and working in Braunton who wanted to bring together contemporary art and the community within their unique and rural location. Since then, the team of two has grown to a team of four, welcoming local artist Sharon Gale as a director and George Rayner as gallery assistant.
​
Managing director, Laura Porter, is an artist and curator, having obtained an MA in Fine Art Sculpture at University of the Arts London. She has been shortlisted for a number of awards, been commissioned to make work for galleries across the country, and has been involved in artist-led activities and residencies since 2014. She has also received funding from A-n, Arts Council England and The British Council. Laura oversees all programming and curation at the gallery, as well as manages the marketing, fundraising, financial and business development. Laura is particularly interested in working with emerging and mid-career artists and working with partner organisations all across the South West to help build an exciting and active network of contemporary fine arts across the region.
Community engagement director Sharon Gale is an artist, art educator and designer. As one half of artist duo QUIETBRITISHACCENT, she has shown at numerous galleries and street art events and has work held in the permanent collection of the Fitzwilliam Museum. Sharon’s background is in Fashion & Textiles, graphic design and art education, and she has over 15 years of arts workshop experience. Joining Studio KIND. as a director, Sharon supports with the day-to-day running of the gallery and is particularly focused on outreach, wellbeing and community.
Assistant manager George Rayner graduated with a BA in Fine Art Photography, and since returned to his hometown in North Devon. George specialises in analogue still and moving image, developing traditional photographic technique into one more ecologically sustainable, and has exhibited across the country, while taking on both commission and personal based projects. George has recently taking on the role of photography and video producer at the gallery, and also supports with marketing, design and exhibition installation.
Founding director Richard Gregory has 40 years’ experience in the arts and creative sectors. His work as an artist, designer, film maker and social entrepreneur has seen him involved in nationally significant projects and campaigns. Richard’s work has been archived in the British Library and is commissioned by national charities and institutions including the National Trust, Belmarsh Prison and Surfers Against Sewage. He was also a founding Trustee of the Museum of British Surfing. Richard now provides support with organisational development.
​
​