Sheffield has the most artists’ studios outside of London, and over 100 artists have made their home at Yorkshire Artspace, either in the light-filled spaces of the purpose-built Persistence Works or the six-floor art deco Exchange Place Studios.

The public space at the front of Yorkshire Artspace at Persistence Works is often used for artists' residencies and exhibitions. And, once a year, the whole of Yorkshire Artspace's two sites become a gallery. The annual Open Studios is a fantastic opportunity to see inside the working spaces of some of our city’s most creative residents – from ceramicists to jewellers, to furniture makers, to printmakers, painters and sculptors. It’s a chance to smell the ink, wood and paint, to see the presses, looms and potters wheels, and, most importantly, to meet the artists who are continuing Sheffield’s proud tradition of making.

We were invited behind the scenes at Yorkshire Artspace to meet the artists and poke around their studios. It was a real privilege to see the working environments of these incredibly talented people and to watch them at work. Check out our Meet the Locals pages to have a nosey around some of the studios.

The outer wall of Persistence Works is quite literally alive with art. Titled Growing City, a 32-metre-long mural along the front of the building is a collaboration between artist Jo Peel and horticulturist Professor Nigel Dunnett. Created in 2020 with support from Yorkshire Artspace and City of Ideas.

• Words by
• Claire Thornley

• Images by
• Nigel Barker

• Featured in
• A Sheffield street art trail
• A city centre gallery trail