Just two final art classes and the doors will close permanently for the Lismore Art Space which has been in operation for three years.

Founder and local artist Anna Nordstrum, told the Lismore App that the artistic journey of the space will be over by the end of the month.

Anna, who grew up in Sweden and has lived in Lismore for 20 years, established the studios and exhibition space in the Norris Street building after relocating from Silver Cloud in South Lismore.

“I rented a studio at Silver Cloud for years. I lost everything in the last big flood in 2017,” Anna explained.

“The real estate agent and the owner of the building are coming today to assess, it’s probably going on the market,” she added.

The building is classified as light industrial and is located in a residential area.

Ms Nordstrum understands that the current owner is “pro art” and that it’s possible there will be an artistic future for the building, but for now she and the other artists will be returning to work from home.

“I’m basically broke, I can’t look for another space. I will work from my living room.”

Anna Nordstrum at work in her studio at Lismore Art Space

Anna’s vision for the space was “to give artists an opportunity to make some money” and provide art lovers with access to local talent.

2019 proved to be a successful year with lots of workshops and exhibitions. The space’s ability to provide such events and income has been eroded by repeated lockdowns and extended restrictions, with artists often unable to access and utilise the four permanent studios onsite.

“I really wanted to start a space where artists could interact and inspire each other and help other,” Anna explained.

Previous to the three year lease now expiring, the space was used by local printmakers.

Lismore Art Space pre pandemic

“Everything was a bit overgrown, I spent a lot of time and effort creating a garden and a lovely atmosphere….I’ve had people say if this place was in Melbourne it would be packed every day!” Anna said.

“I have over 2000 facebook followers and yet perhaps more than half of Lismore doesn’t know we exist.”

While a return to Silver Cloud could be an option for some of the artists, Anna expressed sadness at the current restrictions and new vaccination rules not allowing for a farewell celebration.

“The thing that really saddens me, I wanted to have a last hurrah. I had arranged music and exhibitions…it would have been my responsibility to check vaccination status, I find it so undemocratic. I can’t afford a $5000 fine.”

“I think it’s my role as an artist to oppose undemocratic rulings…If I were head of a big gallery I would stay shut until December 1st. I think everyone should be allowed in.”

The Lismore Art Space website is still active. You can visit here to view the archives of previous events and exhibitions to see what they have contributed to Lismore’s arts community over the last three years.