Many may know the location of Chris Meek’s unique workshop on Cross street, but on Friday 26th October a new studio space will be opening next door, showcasing contemporary art from emerging local artists.

Aptly named ‘Studeo’ after the Studebaker car that sits at the entrance of the new exhibition space, artists Brigid Allan and Chris and Shelley Meek invite the Raglan community to celebrate the opening of the newly created studio.

“It’s going to be an artist-run space. We have our workshop and Biddy (Brigid) has her studio here but we hope to show works by different artists as well,” said Shelley.
Brigid is studying fine art and has a studio space at the rear of the newly established Studeo gallery.

She will be exhibiting a collection of fine art pieces alongside the sculptural and steel works of Chris Meek’s exhibition, ‘As Is Where Is’ which will be held in the workshop next door.
“I guess we felt that there was a gap in Raglan in terms of exhibiting art. You have the galleries and the market but its quite mainstream and we wanted to create something that would give people a different experience,” said Chris.

Chris and Shelley are also part of the art collective that founded Jet. After 11 years at the space, this November, the couple will be saying farewell to their presence on Bow Street.
The new ‘Studeo’ stays true to the workshop’s aesthetic with exposed beams and large walls for showcasing large artworks and the artists have some exciting things planned for upcoming months so watch this space!

The Opening @ Studeo, 21 Cross Street Raglan. Friday 26th October 5:30pm — 8:30pm.

Maki Nishiyama