A local artist in Spalding is advocating for the transformation of a beloved former bookstore into a creative community hub, citing the town's lack of facilities for artists and creative individuals. Joey Lowe, an abstract artist, has set his sights on the empty Bookmark store in The Crescent, which closed its doors in July after operating since 1981.
The much-loved bookstore, which served the community for over four decades, was forced to close due to rising operational costs. More than two months have passed since staff members bid farewell to customers, leaving the prominent shop space vacant. Lowe envisions converting the former retail space into a dedicated hub where arts and crafts enthusiasts, theater groups, and emerging musicians could gather and collaborate.
Lowe has been attempting to gain support from South Holland District Council officials but expressed frustration over the lack of response to his multiple inquiries. "I want to create something that brings people together, but I am not getting a response from the people who hold the cards and make decisions," Lowe stated. He criticized the local government's approach to arts and culture, saying, "Arts and culture is always left behind, the council are pushing artists out of the town."
The artist proposed that if the council could facilitate the rental of the Bookmark space, various groups could utilize it as a cultural center for art, music, and drama activities. "If they could rent Bookmark out to people, different groups could use it as a cultural hub for art, music and drama – otherwise it will just sit there," Lowe explained. He emphasized his concern about the town's declining support for creative individuals, stating, "There are artists and creators who are trying to get a dedicated space but the council just don't care about it – it terrifies me."
Lowe has been actively advocating for improved support for the town's art scene for the past five years. He has made it clear to district council officials that he would be willing to organize art events for the community. His commitment to the cause is demonstrated through his successful organization of two art exhibitions held at The Sessions House, where the owners generously provided the space free of charge.
These exhibitions proved highly successful, collectively attracting 800 visitors. Lowe believes these events have significantly improved Spalding's art scene by providing independent artists who aren't affiliated with private groups or societies a platform to showcase their work. "I believe the exhibitions have improved the art scene in Spalding because it has given independent artists who aren't linked to private groups or society's, a platform to showcase their work," he explained.
The artist emphasized the broader benefits of such initiatives, noting that they create opportunities and boost confidence among independent artists. He extended an invitation to local councillors to attend future art exhibitions to witness firsthand the quality of work and community engagement. "I welcome councillors to come to the art exhibitions and see the work and what it's all about, otherwise the town is going to start losing artists and creative individuals," Lowe warned.
Prior to Bookmark's closure, Councillor Nick Worth, leader of South Holland District Council, had expressed his determination to prevent the loss of the bookshop and requested the owners to contact him to find a long-term solution. However, the situation became complicated when Darren and Jason Sutton, who had operated the store since taking it over in 2016, expressed disappointment with Worth's public comments, stating that the council leader had never actually contacted them directly.
The district council has been approached for comment regarding Lowe's proposal and the ongoing situation with the vacant Bookmark space. The outcome of this initiative could significantly impact the future of arts and culture in Spalding, as the community weighs the importance of supporting local creative talent against other municipal priorities.
