New artworks unveiled ahead of opening of Stockroom cultural centre

Stockroom has unveiled a series of unique artworks designed to celebrate Stockport’s heritage, talent, and vibrant community spirit as the town’s new creative and cultural centre prepares to open later this Spring.

Featuring work from nationally acclaimed artists with Stockport roots, including a model maker who has worked with Tim Burton, Wes Anderson, and Guillermo del Toro, these commissions promise to make art more accessible, inspiring, and reflective of local voices.

Works aim to transform Stockroom into a dynamic creative space shaped by the people of Stockport, with community workshops and public engagement having played a key role in commissioning the four pieces that will go on display. The four commissions include:

• A printmaking project by Wendy Roby – using natural dyes sourced from Stockport’s green spaces, this community-driven artwork will be truly one-of-a-kind.
• A living installation by Alex Williams (Stockport Fungi) – crafted entirely from mycelium, this sustainable artwork showcases the creative potential of natural resources while reflecting the local landscape (pictured above).
• Children’s mural by illustrator Hannah Tolson – young residents will help shape a colourful, visual story that will be on permanent display in Stockroom’s library.
• A  mural by Mikesian Studio – known for their bold, graphic style, this striking mural is inspired by local pride.

Commissions have been part-funded by the UK Government through the Shared Prosperity Fund, securing £25,000 to deliver Stockroom Socials—a community engagement programme that has helped shape Stockroom’s vision alongside Stockport residents.

Cllr Helen Foster-Grime, Cabinet Member for Communities, Culture and Sport at Stockport Council said:

“These commissions are a testament to Stockport’s thriving creative scene and the power of art. By working with national talent that is locally based, we are bringing fresh perspectives to our town’s cultural landscape, proving that world-class creativity can flourish right here in our town.

“Art has the ability to inspire, connect, and breathe new life into our spaces, and these projects will do just that. We can’t wait for everyone to experience these works when Stockroom opens.”

Stockroom is Stockport’s new creative and cultural centre, set to open in Spring 2025, with an opening date to be revealed later this month.

The space repurposes disused retail units in the Merseyway Shopping Centre using grant funding from the government’s Future High Streets Fund, and will feature a new town centre library, café bar, historical archives, and performances, literature events, workshops and creative experiences, alongside a year-round programme of events.