A new hope for culture as brand new gallery opens in Doncaster town centre

Togetherness is something that many people are craving in a post lockdown world.

The D31 Art Gallery on Scot Lane is currently hosting a huge exhibition on the topic.

The art is inspired by the world opening back up, family and friends reuniting and artists themselves finally being able display their works for the public to enjoy.

Kim Farr, Trustee at the gallery, said: “When we got the keys to this place back in October it was really run down.

“There was rubbish everywhere and we had a lot of decorating to do.

“We almost opened months ago but then another lockdown shut the whole thing down again.”

The gallery was finally able to open on Monday, May 17 when government restrictions eased.

70 artists currently have their work on display in the gallery - 30 of whom are Doncaster based.

There is a real variety of art work from traditional paintings of Doncaster landmarks to ceramics and photography.

The eclectic collection of art tells many different versions of the ‘togetherness’ story.

But one common theme is clear - joy that the separation is finally coming to a close.

“I think we’re a bit like a tardis,” Kim continued.

“From the outside we just look like a little building.

“But as soon as you step inside it’s a world of colour and art.

“I’m so excited that this is here in Doncaster.“We hope it will encourage more arts based activity in the town.

“Wouldn’t it be great to get more people coming here and seeing us as a cultural town.”

Andy Hollinghurst is one of the artists whose work is on display in the gallery as part of the Togetherness exhibition.

He said: “There’s nothing else like this in Doncaster.

“It’s a fabulous opportunity to be involved with it.

“All of the artists coming together and collaborating has been wonderful.”

Kim and the other artists who run the gallery have big hopes for their inclusion into the Doncaster art scene.

They are hosting solo exhibitions monthly, integrating their art into local schools and even opening up a cafe to entice more Doncaster folk inside.

For Kim and others this space is a real haven.

She said: “Five years ago I was a mum with no prospects of a career.

“My son was taking art classes at Doncaster College and I got inspired to try it out myself.

“I went from night school to a degree to eventually becoming an art curator.

“I think it’s meant to be and I’m loving every minute of it.”

A few years ago Kim didn’t believe Doncaster could be a place where art thrived but thanks to her and Chinwe Rusell’s hard work it now has a massive space for artists which they hope will continue to grow.

The next exhibition will be solely based in photography.

You can keep up to date with the gallery here.

In these confusing and worrying times, local journalism is more vital than ever. Thanks to everyone who helps us ask the questions that matter by taking out a subscription or buying a paper. We stand together. Liam Hoden, editor.