Supporting Emerging Artists

theblokhouse is an artist-run studio and project space in Southend on Sea. Founded by local Fine Art graduates in 2020 to provide affordable studio space and facilities for creative students in an environment which nurtures individual and collaborative practice across all disciplines.

Since moving to new premises in December 2023 we have provided 8 studio spaces plus 1 hot space for emerging artists prioritising those who have faced physical, mental and financial barriers to accessing affordable studio space in a supportive creative environment. Many are graduates from University Centre South Essex College with some having recently participated in The Other MA (TOMA) and School of the Damned seeking alternative ways to develop their practice.

Our aim is to to work with graduates of arts education programmes to support professional development and routes into creative employment, promoting health and well-being through art practice.

We want to expand to provide vital workshop space and facilities to the studio artists and the wider community while implementing a learning programme of upskilling workshops, mentoring, peer-led crits, networking opportunities and showcases of work.