Artists set to deliver community arts activities at new town art studio

Tuesday 14 January 2025

Two local artists have been selected to take up residence in a new town studio space where they will deliver creative community activities that are free and accessible to all.

Hayley Gibaut and Sophie Harris have been chosen by ArtHouse Jersey to occupy the new space at Cyril Le Marquand Court in a partnership with Andium Homes.

The local artists and life long friends who bonded over their passion for art now embark on a new collaborative project launching Monday 20 January.

Pictured: Ceramic snake and tiles made by Hayley Gibaut. (ArtHouse Jersey)

The new art space – dubbed 'The Stoodio' by the pair – is based at Cyril Le Marquand Court and is available for the public to visit free of charge.

After graduating with an undergraduate degree in Fine Art and Master's in Communication Design, Hayley works with a variety of both 2D and 3D forms such as ceramics and biro sketching.

Inspired by her interest in archaeology and anthropology, she incorporates the societal and ceremonial aspects of history into her art.

Sophie focuses on illustration and animation, with a particular interest in fashion, textiles and print.

Her passion for upcycling influences her work by utilising materials such as plastic water bottles and planks of woods as canvases.

Pictured: Painting by Sophie Harris using upcycled materials such as planks of wood as a canvas. (ArtHouse Jersey)

The artists will deliver community-driven art activities for the public that are free and accessible, providing a chance for local islanders to explore new and creative skills.

As well as providing the community with a dynamic and open space, the studio will also be for the personal practice of the artists.

The duo relied on their art as a coping mechanism after both discovering they are neurodiverse.

By opening a space which supports diversity and inclusion, they therefore hope to create a safe environment that promotes self-acceptance and self-discovery through reflection and experimentation.

Pictured: Ceramic Jersey Cows made by Hayley Gibaut. (ArtHouse Jersey) 

Tom Dingle, the Director of ArtHouse Jersey, said: "We're delighted to have selected Hayley and Sophie to take on this fantastic opportunity.

"We look forward to watching them bring that infection energy into this unique community space."

Peter Le Gresley, Regeneration and Placemaking Lead at Andium Homes, said: "Our vision is delivering great home and services for all who need them, which means that we not only build high quality home, but we also help to create communities."