Charity celebrates success of migrant story with opening of new Derby space

A NEW contemporary art space will open in Derby this week, to mark India independence day on Thursday (15) and "celebrate togetherness".

Derby city-based charity Artcore will launch its new city centre location this week, with hopes that it will have a further impact on the local community using visual art.

The upcoming months will see the New Building used as a project exploration space. It will be transformed into a “modern gallery exhibiting local, national and international contemporary art” as well as supporting and showcasing local artists.

It will also feature art workshops for all ages, family activities, events, talks and performances from internationally renowned artists.

Guests are invited to join in the celebrations with a range of creative activities and refreshments on offer.

Founders Ruchita Shaikh and her husband, Zahir have said they hope the space can help to engage with socially disadvantaged groups.

“All we ever wanted was to give socially disadvantaged people the chance to enjoy art and help nurture their talents, health and well-being,’ explained Shaikh, Artcore’s executive director. “Since the start, by offering inspirational creative art programmes, we’ve successfully engaged with some of society’s most vulnerable people. And today, I think we can say that we’ve achieved what we set out to do.”

The pair initially moved to Derby from India ten years ago. Soon after they settled, the couple launched the charity. They hope that their story can help to inspire others and highlight the successes of migrants who come to the UK.

“It’s been a journey, I can tell you that,” Zahir, Art Director of Artcore, said. “But ten years on, we could not be happier.”

The launch will take place on Thursday from 11am to 1pm at Albert Street, Osnabruck Square