A new space for queer creativity, community and culture is coming to York.
The award-winning QueerArts UK CiC has acquired a new Arts space for the Community at 32 Walmgate, York – with the organisation working towards opening later this year.
CEO Wayne Dawson said: “We’ve been working toward this for nearly five years and we’re so pleased to have secured the venue.
“Our mission to champion queer arts and culture is only just starting, but this marks a significant step on our journey. The space is much needed in York and we hope to continue to make a lasting impact on our community.”
The new venue will be one of the few of its kind in the UK and will create a welcoming home dedicated to LGBTQIA+ arts and culture in York.
QueerArts will use the space for regular classes and creative workshops, through exhibitions and events showcasing queer art, music, dance, performance, literature, as well it being a community space.
J’o Lloyd, development manager at QueerArts, said: “32 Walmgate has so much potential for us to enable LGBTQIA+ folk to express themselves creatively. But it is also a space for the wider community to experience and understand via the Arts what queer narratives mean. Those different perspectives benefit us all – this is a space for everyone.
“We’re really excited by the idea of the venue being versatile and responsive to what our creative community wants and needs. It’s not huge, so we need to think carefully about how we make it multi-purpose. Neither do we have all the answers – but that’s part of the excitement.
“We’d love to hear ideas from creatives about how we can make the very best use of it.”
The space is currently being prepared and is not yet open to the public. QueerArts is aiming to open later in autumn 2026, with an official opening date and further programme details to be announced.
The space is to be funded by a grant from the National Lottery– but restricted funding is available for the fit-out. So, QueerArts is also inviting members of the community to get involved in helping transform 32 Walmgate into a vibrant, welcoming creative space.
Anyone who would like to contribute materials, time, skills, ideas or practical help with the fit-out is encouraged to get in touch.
The new venue not only marks an exciting development for QueerArts UK CiC but will also offer a wider opportunity to collaborate with queer creatives and performers as well as other LGBTQIA+ and Arts organisations.
J’o Lloyd added: “This is a great opportunity for us to bring together individuals and organisations to create something positive and special.
“We are very open to working with anyone for mutual benefit as this project is about benefitting as many people as possible. We are so looking forward to welcoming everyone who calls in.”