Step inside the Studios

ONCE a year, the large grey shutter of BV Studios is rolled up and all are warmly welcomed inside to explore the workspaces of more than 100 local creatives. The nondescript 30,000 square foot warehouse is nestled in an industrial corner of Bedminster, surrounded by Windmill Hill City Farm opposite, Asda and The Bristol Loaf to one side and Victoria Park to the other.

In the space formerly occupied by the Wiltshire Print Works, you’ll now find Bristol’s largest independent artists’ studios, BV Studios. Extraordinary to those in the know, but relatively anonymous to passers-by, the building is host to an eclectic community of artists and small creative businesses.

BV has provided affordable and secure studio spaces for a diverse community

“Despite anecdotal information and suggestions from neighbours, I have been presented with no substantive information, or formal evidence from a suitably qualified person, which would lead me to conclude that the site has any habitats, species or features of importance — and hence the proposal would not result in the loss of ecological value.”

Flooding was another concern raised by councillors when they refused planning permission last summer. Neighbours living next door fear that their homes will be at higher risk of flooding from the nearby River Malago, as water would be displaced from the new bungalows.

But according to Ms Davies, “there are no readily available alternative sites” nearby, so the plans pass a key obstacle known in planning jargon as a ‘sequential test’. Also, the bungalows would have “mitigation proposals” built into them, such as permeable surfaces and raised floor levels. However, another important obstacle could still potentially block the bungalows from being built. The land was formerly owned by Bristol City Council, which sold the site for £6,000, but placed a legal covenant allegedly preventing any development. But it’s unclear whether the council would enforce that covenant, and the developers might be able to get it removed.

By Alex Seabrook, Local Democracy Reporter

to framers, film-makers, illustrators and upholsterers.

Walking through the door into BV Stdios is a feast for the senses. The smell of fresh paint and printmaking ink, the sound of printers, cameras and sewing machines in action and textiles, books and prints to pick up and enjoy.

The Open Studios weekend promises to be a chance to explore the labyrinthine building, taking in the film studios and cinema in the basement, into all the numerous artist spaces and a pole dancing studio in the basement.

The foyer will be open for food and drink, where you can grab a coffee and a bite to eat from some of Bristol’s independent food traders. Make a weekend of it and enjoy the delights of Windmill Hill City Farm or a stroll around Victoria Park while you’re here.

of artists and creatives since 2010, and continues to support and provide workspace for Bristol creatives. Studio holders include painters, performers, weavers and writers

Buying or selling a home in South Bristol?

The annual Open Studios event offers a glimpse into a substantial and alternative creative working environment, and an opportunity to purchase work by talented artists and skilled makers.

BV Studios is at 37 Philip Street, Bedminster. And the open weekend is happening from April 14 to 16.

THIS! – WITH NICK CHURCH

I’m Nick Church from Nick Church Photography, and in a series of articles for South Bristol Voice, I’ll be sharing hints, tips and advice on the popular topic of photography.

Photography takes patience. When you have a scene ready to take, sometimes it’s a good idea to just wait a little…

In the mid 20th Century, influential photographer Henri Cartier-Bresson coined the term ‘the decisive moment’; the moment that all the elements in a shot come together.

This is important when I’m photographing weddings as the moment needs to tell a story.

This game of Jenga really tried my patience, but I got the shot eventually! How does this affect your photography? When you’re shooting a scene, what might happen if you wait a little. Someone smiling, a person or wildlife moving through the scene. This will all improve your photo.

To help this idea, take lots and lots of photos of the same thing. This increases your chance of getting that ‘Decisive Moment’.

This shot outside MShed needed something different, and I knew if I waited long enough it would happen. OK, I couldn’t have guessed it would be two people on a bike with a bottle of wine, but that’s the great thing about photography!

Next month – everyday scenes. When you are building up experience, things in the house, garden, or on your street can make great photos. I’d love you to send your favourite photos of everyday things to nick@nickchurchphotography.co.uk I’ll share a few of my favourites in the next article when I will be writing about ‘everyday scenes’.