Artists collective takes 8,000 sq ft at Salford Shopping Centre

Landlord Praxis Real Estate Management has welcomed Supermassive to the retail complex. The organisation will take over the former Argos unit.

The artists collective has chosen an 8,000 sq ft unit at Salford Shopping Centre as the site of its headquarters, signing an initial 12-month deal.

Supermassive, which describes itself as an “artist-led initiative founded by veteran creatives from across the UK festival scene”, plans to refit the unit and create a workshop and an interactive showcase for its work.

The HQ, which will host free immersive shows for the public, is expected to launch in October.

“Our mission statement is ‘reconnecting people through creative play.’”, said Ben Kercher, commercial director for Supermassive.

“We’re aiming to make this a place where everyone can come together to enjoy and engage with innovative artworks and develop a sense of community and shared exploration, so we can’t wait to welcome the crowds to our first exhibition later this year.”

He added: “We wanted to create something truly unique. A space that offers something totally new to Salford, and also gives us the opportunity to refine and develop our ideas and showcase some truly show-stopping art.”

Ilan Goldman, director of retail for Praxis, said securing Supermassive was a “real coup”.

“[The deal] supports the cultural aspirations and ambitions of the city and follows on from the success of our first artist in residence, Chelsea Davies who has gone on to significant acclaim as a result of the exposure of our collaboration.”

Goldman added that attracting organisations like Supermassive is part of a wider strategy for the shopping centre.

“Having brands and businesses like Supermassive as part of our offering is crucial to our aim of diversifying what the centre means to both the city of Salford and the wider Greater Manchester city region,” he said.

“We want to create a space that offers more than just shopping, and can bring real value to the local community, and working with teams like Supermassive is just the beginning of our work to diversify the centre’s offering.”