insideKENT Magazine Issue 29 - August 2014 | Page 28

ARTS+ENTERTAINMENT
THE CULTURAL AND CREATIVE HEART OF KENT

Nucleus Arts
Over the last 12 years, Nucleus Arts has run a variety of projects and
events to help make the arts accessible for all in Medway. With studios
and gallery space located in central Chatham, the public are able to
visit a free art gallery in between shopping.
In September 2013, the Kent-based arts
organisation extended its 'arts for all' principle
and opened up the Nucleus Riverside Hub in
Military Road, Chatham. Located in close
proximity to the large Waterfront Bus Station, it
offers an even more central location and in turn,
a constant, busy flow of passers-by.
Whenever I visit the hub as a customer, I
am always pleased to hear the positive comments
from those who enter. In addition, because the
hub is not just a café – it is a place to meet,
discuss, debate, read and create – it provides
countless opportunities for visitors to come
together. In doing so, it has inspired innovation
among the customers, while also encouraging
people to think about what they themselves can
add to the local area.
Vital for both innovation and regeneration,
every developing town needs spaces like this.
Creativity is not just about art; it is about ideas,
solutions and acting upon them. The Nucleus
Arts Riverside Hub provides a space in which

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anyone can become a part of the community
that is shaping Medway.
Nucleus is also progressing to provide
more workshops and taster sessions for people
of all ages who would like to develop their
creativity, as well as small arts festivals whereby
people can find locally made creations and
participate in live workshops. The next Nucleus
Arts Festival takes place at 272 High Street,
Chatham, on Saturday 13th September. The
event will also provide people with the opportunity
to tour the artists' studios.
To find out more, visit www.nucleusarts.com
or like us on Facebook at
www.facebook.co.uk/nucleusarts
by Natasha Steer
Education and Community
Development Coordinator