Write a commentIf you have any memories or stories of the old mill on Edward Street in Newry in its former existence, the present residents Sticky Fingers Arts would love to hear from you!
Just over a year ago, Sticky Fingers Arts took over the old mill on Edward Street in Newry, formally JT Carpets and before that a very colourful and rich history as a mill and even a skating rink.
Nestled inside, The Imaginarium Arts and Story Centre is a magical world like no other. Children can hide in secret tunnels, visit the village in the forest, dress up as a pirate or a dinosaur, make a wish in the well, take the helm and fly to the moon – the only limit is their imagination.
It's the creation of Sticky Fingers Arts, the children's art organisation behind the successful Giant's Lair mythical land at Slieve Gullion Forest Park. Located in Newry, Northern Ireland, it opened in late 2018 as the only fully accessible arts centre in the city, and the only dedicated arts space for children and young people in Northern Ireland. It is used by families from all backgrounds, cultures and religions, from across the border region. It hosts arts programmes for babies up to teenagers of 17, and activities for older people with dementia. National Lottery funding from the Arts Council Northern Ireland funding was integral to getting the project off the ground, and phase two of the project will provide a 250-seat theatre space, exhibition space and additional workshop areas. It will open later this year.
As Grainne Powell, Chief Executive, Sticky Fingers Arts says “We love this building and despite the work that needs to happen, we want to celebrate and explore its past, warts and all.”
The building is over 300 years old and a vibrant and important part of Newry’s history. Originally a linen mill, part of the industrial revolution, the building bears the scars of its past as well as the history of Northern Ireland.
Today the residents share the building with a number of ghosts ... ghosts who apparently even manage to stop their hauntings during lunch break!!! but as Mark Revels, Sticky Fingers says "Thankfully all seem happy that we are there and are now part of our little team."
Mark continued "It's now a vibrant Children’s Arts Centre, the first of its kind in Ireland but we still need to acknowledge and honour the buildings history and the unique history associated with this old part of Newry.
"Thanks to funding from the Heritage Lottery Fund, we are hoping to do just that."
The present custodians of the building want Newry people to take a step down memory lane so If you or any of your family have memories or experiences, old pictures, stories regarding the Mill, they would very much like to hear from you.
Sticky Fingers are hoping to create a permanent exhibition on the building’s history to feature at the entrance of the new Children’s Theatre.
Today the old mill is a magical space for children’s stories, art, music and much more but it’s past has a very different story to tell and they want to ensure they celebrate and honour the past while moving into the future.
if anyone has a story to tell or a picture to share, call into the the Imaginarium or email sarah@stickyfingersarts.co.uk or grainne@stickyfingersarts.co.uk to be part of their story.
You can also get in contact with them via Facebook at sticky fingers arts
