Centre Space Arts CIC brings together artists, businesses and communities to form a dynamic, collaborative ecosystem.

Founded in 2013 by photographer, videographer and gallery owner Darren Washington, the team of two work out of Smithfield Works in Stoke-on-Trent City Centre on projects addressing issues such as fuel poverty.

“At Centre Space Arts we believe that creativity is more than just expression, it’s a powerful catalyst for change, connection and community resilience,” said Darren, who turned his business into a Community Interest Company in 2021.

“Rooted in Stoke-on-Trent, our work goes beyond traditional arts programming. We are proud of our grassroots beginnings and equally proud of how far we’ve come.

“Our projects are purposeful. Whether addressing fuel poverty, promoting wellbeing through workplace creativity or empowering young people through real-world experience, our initiatives are grounded in relevance, inclusion and positive social impact.

“By embedding creativity into everyday spaces, from Smithfield Works to the High Street, we challenge outdated perceptions of where art belongs and who it’s for.

“2024 marked a turning point: our most successful year to date, where growth met impact. From flagship projects like Warm This Winter to new partnerships with key stakeholder venues around the city centre, we’ve amplified the voices of local creatives and fostered a network that supports freelance livelihoods and reinvests in the local economy.”

Darren and colleague Sarah Peart work with artists, filmmakers, photographers and other creatives to run workshops, deliver event and offer creative services that connect communities, businesses and the unique stories of Stoke-on-Trent.evH

He added: “We don’t just do funded projects, we also try to have a commercial element to the work that we do. If a business uses our services then an element of that goes towards community projects.”

Centre Space Arts has entered the High Street Impact and Business in the Community categories of University of Staffordshire Business Awards.