The Art Works Galleries closes down

Sep 25 2009 by Barbara Hodgson, The Journal

The 23-year-old, who runs his own photography business, said: “I paid £50 to exhibit and afterwards I realised one of the prints, of the Millennium Bridge, had sold at £30, so I rang up and they said they’d get a cheque sent but nothing’s been in the post.

“I’ve been ringing every day but now can’t get in touch. I’m surprised as The Art Works had an excellent reputation.”

When The Journal spoke yesterday to Matt Forster, who also has his own gallery in Hexham, he confirmed The Art Works had closed its doors last Thursday and said: “I’d like to thank everybody for their support.

“It’s been a fantastic three years so far and I hope we can find a way to continue in future.

“If anybody has any queries they can email info@theartworksgalleries.com and they will be dealt with.”

Mr Forster and his wife ran the original Art Works in a building opposite the old Warner Brothers cinema in New Bridge Street before the move to Ouseburn, an area which has undergone a massive regeneration.

Speaking in an interview last year, he spoke of the need to keep the momentum going and of the area’s need for financial support.