Newlyn’s Historic Studios Revitalised: See the Stunning New Spaces for Artists

Three new artist studios have opened at Trewarveneth Studios in Newlyn, following a major renovation project made possible by £285,439 in funding from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. The work has transformed a series of dilapidated outbuildings into high-quality, accessible workspaces for artists.

A Long-Awaited Transformation

The project was led by the Borlase Smart John Wells Trust, which manages the historic studios. The funding was secured through the Cornwall & Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme, allowing much-needed restoration work to take place after decades of exposure to harsh coastal weather had left the buildings in poor condition.

Trewarveneth sits within the Newlyn Conservation Area, and architect Rolfe Kentish ensured that conservation principles were at the heart of the renovation. The granite walls were carefully repaired, and reclaimed slate was used on the roof to maintain the building’s character. Contractors South West Building & Maintenance carried out the work with a light-touch approach, resulting in studios that are now dry, well-insulated, heated, and well-lit.

Chris Hibbert, Manager of the Borlase Smart Trust, said:

“It has been a wonderful experience to see three beautiful and high-quality artists’ studios emerge from the semi-derelict buildings that were here last year. I am so grateful to everyone who helped make this happen, and the Trewarveneth tenants and neighbours who have been so patient and understanding throughout.”

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A Boost for Local Artists

The opening of the studios marks the completion of a project that has been two decades in the making. Since the renovation of the main Trewarveneth building in 2007, efforts to secure funding for this additional work had been ongoing.

Chris said:

“We have been trying to raise the funding for this project for nearly 20 years since the renovation of the main Trewarveneth building in 2007, and so very special thanks to the Good Growth team at Cornwall Council who have made this possible. I am also delighted that our three new tenants are all very talented artists who live in Newlyn or Penzance, so this is certainly fulfilling a local need.”

Cllr Linda Taylor, Leader of Cornwall Council, officially opened the new spaces alongside Denise Mitchell, daughter of renowned sculptor Denis Mitchell. Linda highlighted the importance of supporting the arts through the Shared Prosperity Fund, saying:

“Using the Shared Prosperity Fund we have invested over £17 million into arts and culture projects through the Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Good Growth Programme. Investing in the arts is crucial for the cultural and economic vitality of our communities. The Shared Prosperity Fund has enabled us to support projects like Trewarveneth Studios, which not only preserve our heritage but also provide valuable opportunities for local artists to thrive.”

A Historic Site with an Artistic Legacy

Trewarveneth Studios has a rich artistic heritage. The building was originally an infants’ school, with the now-restored outbuildings serving as toilets and a coal store. In 1967, artist John Wells, a key figure in the St Ives Modernist movement, purchased the school to use as his studio and invited his friend Denis Mitchell to share the space.

Following John’s death in 2000, the site was bequeathed to the Borlase Smart John Wells Trust, a charity that continues to manage artists’ studios. The trust also owns the neighbouring Grade II* Anchor Studio and Grade II* Porthmeor Studios in St Ives.

This project was funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, with Cornwall Council acting as the Lead Authority responsible for monitoring its progress.

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