VIDEO: New Rotherham print studio "vital" to keep talent in town

The Mayor of Rotherham, Clle Eve Rose Keenan and her Consort, Pat Keenan, who were special guests at the official opening of the Sorting Office Arts Collective new printing press, with project co-ordinator Vicky Hilton. 171759-4

Vicky Hilton, who founded The Sorting Office arts hub in Rotherham as part of community project scheme Carling Made Local, said such facilities were vital to ensure talented artist did not look elsewhere to develop their work.

The print studio is a key feature of The Sorting Office, a transformed derelict cellar that is now a co-working space for upcoming artists to work and develop their skills in Rotherham.

Vicky said it was helping the town find its voice by giving young artists a unique place to come and work in their local community — giving them a reason to stay and make the town their own.

“Facilities like these help keep talent in Rotherham and give other people reason to come into Rotherham,” she said.

“The Sorting Office creates a platform for artists in Rotherham; otherwise you've got lots of skills and talent without anywhere to go and showcase it.

“Keeping these skills in the town is really important; it enriches what the town has to offer.”

Vicky has been always been very passionate in making Rotherham “a better place to live” and was behind the idea of starting Rotherham Carnival in 2016.

[xdelx]

Miranda Osborne, Carling Brand Director said: “We were really inspired by Vicky and how proud she is to be a resident of Rotherham.

“Providing the community with new artist and printing spaces means more people can get involved, develop their skills and shout about talent in South Yorkshire.”

Visit www.carling.com/made-local to find out more about Carling's Made Local initiative.