Sunderland's New Gallery Debuts with Dazzling Student Art Showcase

The Maker Meanwhile Gallery has officially opened its doors in Sunderland, marking an exciting moment for the city’s art scene. Located in the Riverside Maker Building, the gallery is part of Sunderland’s ongoing efforts to redevelop and revitalize the riverside area. The first exhibition, called Emerging, features artwork from recent Fine Art graduates and postgraduates from the University of Sunderland. These young artists are thrilled to have the opportunity to display their work in a public space, right in the heart of the city’s new development.

One of the artists featured in the exhibition is Dean Gooch, a postgraduate student who described the experience as a fantastic opportunity to connect with the public. Dean is seen wearing a black cap and a black jumper with pink letters, standing in front of his artwork that depicts hands. Another striking piece in the gallery resembles an insect, crafted from shiny materials and attached to the wall with pink bows. The gallery itself is situated on Plater Way and is part of the Maker & Faber development, which was completed in March. James Silver, the managing director of Landid, the company behind the development, explained that Sunderland has a long history as a city of makers, and the names of the buildings were chosen to honor that tradition.

Suzy O'Hara, a Fine Art academic and lecturer in Digital Arts and Enterprise at the university, believes the gallery enriches the development site by showcasing the city’s emerging creative talent. The Riverside Sunderland Masterplan aims to create connections between new residential areas like Sheepfolds, Vaux, and Farringdon Row, making the city more accessible and vibrant. The area also features modern buildings such as the Housing Innovation and Construction Skills Academy, which stands out with its contemporary design and large glass panels. A new footbridge, long and white, crosses the River Wear, linking Keel Square to the Stadium of Light, with cranes visible on both shores. The Wearmouth Bridge and the North Sea can be seen in the distance, highlighting the city’s connection to its waterways.

The opening of the Maker Meanwhile Gallery is a significant step for Sunderland, providing a platform for young artists to share their work and ideas with the community. It also reflects the city’s commitment to fostering creativity and innovation as part of its broader redevelopment plans. By supporting student artists and investing in new infrastructure, Sunderland is positioning itself as a city that values both its heritage and its future. The gallery is expected to become a hub for artistic expression, drawing visitors and residents alike to experience the vibrant culture emerging in the riverside area.