Kamila Bochenska

Atelier: &rchitecture
BArch: Wroclaw University of Science and Technology
Experience: Interniship at RYSY Architekci
Skills: ArchiCAD, AutoCAD, Adobe, Lumion
Interested in: The community-focused approach to architecture and the relationship between the urban environment and wellbeing.

Derek Horton joined the Smart Community team today to provide us with a professional perspective on the art galleries in Leeds.

First, Derek told us about his experience of running the &Model art gallery housed in the reused three-storey 19th-century building in the center of the city. He shared a presentation that introduced the building and its potential as a small art gallery space. Second, Derek talked about the past of the Tetley, the progress made over the years, and suggested opportunities for improvements.

Then, he highlighted the importance of the flexibility and scale of gallery spaces, the type and amount of light, the dialog with the context of the building, the inviting entrance zone, the consideration for the building's heritage, and accessibility. All those aspects contribute to space as a successful gallery.

Finally, the discussion started within the group on the various aspects of the project, its constraints and opportunities, and the reflection on concepts developed so far.

The meeting with Derek was very informative, and our group is grateful for his time and knowledge he shared with us.

Today, students worked in groups to prepare for the presentation and meeting with Bryony Bond, Tetley’s Artistic Director.

In the morning, the students organized the work they produced during the week, and in the afternoon, Bryony joined the Smart Community team. Following the short introduction, each group presented their concept and design to our guest. Students explained the potential and opportunities of their projects, and Bryony provided groups with constructive professional feedback. Her suggestions and comments prompted reflection on current concepts and showed the potential for further improvements.

We are very grateful for the meeting with Bryony and for her time and knowledge. She helped us understand what is expected from the gallery space from the artist’s and artistic director's perspectives. Her comments will be a great starting point for the work next week.