Facelift as Depot enters new era

The Depot Artspace is adopting a bold new look this month. Exterior changes to its building on Clarence St will include a dark paint job that shows off its new logo, part of a rebranding that also includes a more modern website.

It’s all part of signalling that the Depot is a multi-faceted space determined to connect more with the community, says its general manager Amy Saunders.

“A lot of people think we are still a community arts gallery.”

These days, the Depot’s walls are no longer available for hired exhibition space, but instead an annual programme of shows is curated.

And although the Depot has a long and proud history championing the arts locally, some people are not aware it is there, Saunders says, reflecting changes in the make-up of the peninsula’s population.

Others are unaware it also has sound studios and runs creative programmes.

The Depot has moved to connect with schools about its facilities and plans to work with seniors to let them know they can record oral histories there. Cooperation with other arts and community groups is being fostered, including with the Devonport Community House next door.

A review enabled by a Creative New Zealand grant in 2021 has helped the Depot to make the changes.

Saunders said: “That’s allowed us to look at how we can best serve the community,” including future-proofing its operating model in a challenging environment for the arts. After Covid hiccups, the review is now being put into action.

The most visible sign will be the Depot’s repainted frontage, where support from the Local Board has already seen a canopy replaced, but there’s plenty more in store.

From March, in conjunction with The Vic cinema, it plans to start a programme on the first Thursday of each month, starting with an artist talk at the Depot at 6.30pm followed by a movie at The Vic. Saunders hopes a local bar might get involved too, to make a creative night of it. Similar programmes are run overseas to broaden the reach of arts groups, and one has been started on Karangahape Rd, in Auckland.

Devonport could become more of an arts destination too, she says, drawing people to shows, training and spending in the area.

“I think Devonport has been off the map a little.” But the area has a strong historic connection with the arts and music and this can be reinvigorated, Saunders says.

“We’re leaning into its bohemian heart.”

• On 18 February, the Depot is holding an open day from 10am to 4pm. This includes a look at its studios, new exhibitions and music.