CO-LAB

16   /   05   /   2019

CO-LAB is a collaboration project between a group of students aiming to create a piece of art for a particular client with a particular brief. Portland Works is operating a collection of workspaces for traditional and modern craftspeople within one of the UK’s most important historical industrial buildings. The given brief is titled "People Power", which is the theme for this year's open day, showcasing the importance of the building, and the people (volunteers) who have thrived to make it what it is today.

Portland Works is not just a historical building; it is also a thriving community benefit society and home to craftspeople, artists and small manufacturing.  Following a half-century of neglect, the building was purchased in 2013 by a social enterprise comprising more than 500 community shareholders who, having saved it from residential conversion, are now undertaking an extensive renovation. The piece of art we created shows awareness and appreciation for the factory, building, and people of  Portland Works.