About Us:
Who
15 Resident Artists and Makers from various arts backgrounds contribute to the the identity of Ayres House Studios, along with 16 Associate members with portfolio. The studios also benifit from a Friends subscription and local community partnerships. The studio was founded in 2019 and is currently managed by Ayres House studio’s which is a trading name for Ayres Arts Limited is incorporated and registered in England and Wales under company number 17529485, with registered office at Ayres Yard, Station Road, Wallingford. OX100JZ.
When
This Victorian House was built c 1880 and still has many original interior features designed by Thomas Jeckyll of the aesthetic movement. A Rectory between 1915 and the early 1930’s, it then was used as a transport hub to service Wallingford Railways Station and has had many incarnations over the years since. The studios opened in October 2019 and was officially opened by Wallingford Town Mayor in December that year.
What
The studios are spread over 3 floors in a fabulous period building. We have 14 studios and a storage room to let, some are shared but most are let individually and all are self contained. We have a gallery/education room, free to use by Ayres House residents, a fully equipped kitchen, a garden area and parking.
Why
Artists can feel quite isolated working alone or from home, Ayres House provides an alternative. Ayres Arts aim is to improve creativity, connectivity and collaboration by providing artists with affordable studio space and a place to build relationships, networks and improve their professional development, earning and public engagement potential. We are more visible together.
Where
Wallingford is a historic market town in Oxfordshire and has great road access to Reading, Oxford, Didcot and Henley. Ayres House is situated on Ayres Yard off Station Road, a small hive of businesses that sell, build, design and mend. We are close to the town centre, public transport, car parks and parks. (Map) (Photo credit More than Images )
How
Following a feasibility study in May 2019 looking at demand in the region for studio space. After viewing the disused building and falling in love with it and all the potential it had to offer, took possession in September and it was occupied by artists within a month. The aim of Ayres Arts is to manage running costs, building management and keep charges low, and have subsidized many improvements along with the Landlords PJ Ayres and Son.