INTERVIEW
COMMERCIAL UNION HOUSE
LAURA DOYLE TALKS TO ORBIS’ JONPAUL KIRVAN ABOUT THE INCREDIBLE COMMUNITY WHICH THRIVES AT COMMERCIAL UNION HOUSE Starting something new is scary. It might mean trekking in unknown territory, or mingling with unfamiliar faces. Working in any creative sector especially can seem the most daunting; everyone appears to know exactly what they’re doing and why. But it’s important that everyone starts somewhere, and those who look like they’re having a great time doing artistic jobs often have a support network around them, helping them through every step. Finding these networks, however, can be the tricky bit. That’s where the folks behind Orbis, based in Commercial Union House in Newcastle’s city centre, come into play. They’re responsible for the smooth running of eight floors of the old office block situated just across from the Tyneside Cinema, and provide a whole host of services and activities for creatives in the North East. The community built within these walls has allowed for exponential growth of those who reside within; the communication facilitated by having so many minds in such close proximity allows for projects and opportunities to develop which may not have been able to happen without it.
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“At the start, many years ago, Orbis and Commercial Union House had hardly any recognition,” co-director of Orbis and Ampersand Inventions’ Jonpaul Kirvan explains. “However, we now have a building bursting at the seams with an incredible supportive community that will reach out and give support to those that need help to rebuild after this global pandemic. I have always reminded myself no matter how dark it gets, no matter how tangled and confused you get, just be kind! It’s that simple.” The businesses found inside Commercial Union House have done an excellent job of adapting the spaces to fit a wide variety of purposes. Vane Gallery occupies the first floor, operating as an exhibition gallery for any and every type of art you could imagine. They’ve showcased local artists’ creations on the reg, but also feature national and international artists to bring exceptional cultural experiences to the region. And did I mention all exhibitions and activities are absolutely free to the public? Floor two houses Arcadea – a charity which works tirelessly to bring
