A COMPLETELY self-funded ar t gallery in Basingstok e is looking to become an “oasis” for local artists.

Based in Festival Place, THAT gallery aims to be a platform for established or up-and-coming artists from around north Hampshire. Curated by Rachel Davis, Fatima Pantoja and Graeme Farragher, the vibrant space next to the Wote Street entrance of the shopping centre is a relaxed gallery which aims to promote others.

“We want to create this type of community project which all artists can get involved in,” Rachel told The Gazette.

“Our aim is to encourage young artists to come in and showcase their work, and they can learn about how to display in a gallery and to sell their work as well.”

The THAT gallery project has been running for almost four years in Festival Place, but as it is self-funded it is only able to tak e short leases on units in the centre.

The group is in the current until the end of April, but has already seen retur n customers and a demand for this type of space in the town centre.

Graeme added: “This has been our best pop-up gallery and we would love to stay here. Whenever we move units peoople always seem to find us and absolutely love what we do.

“In this space in particular the footfall has been great and we don’t just get people who are into art, but just general shoppers who want to check out what we are doing.”

As well as being a platform for artists, the THAT gallery aims to be a hub of activity with workshops, face painting and live demonstrations.

“What I think people don’t realise is that everyone here is an artist and we ca n talk passionately about the work we are displaying because it is ours,” Graeme continued.

On Saturday between 10am and 2pm, to tie in with World Book Day, artists will be face painting children.

There is also a competition for children to draw their favourite characters and the winning images will be displayed. Visit facebook.com/ArtatTHATgallery.