BLAC Big Lamp Artists Cooperative

15/03/2026

Its taken me a while to write this, but with the heaviest of hearts we must bid a final farewell to Mick Smee.

Mick has been at BLAC studios since, well I imagine he would estimate 1914. I first shared a studio space with him 25 years ago and I cant imagine how it will be without his constant enthusiasm and encouragement, jokes and stories. Anyone who has been to any of our open events will know, the party alway ends up in Micks studio🍷

He was such a special guy and I dont have the words to convey how much we will miss him at the studio or how much I will miss him as a friend.

I can picture him now, saying goodbye with a final 'gan canny', roll up in mouth, fingers held in a peace sign and disappearing in a waft of patchouli like the beautiful and ever youthful hippy that he was. Goodbye Mick ✌️

##################

For anyone who would like to attend, Micks funeral will be on March 25th 2pm with drinks in the Denton afterwards.

10/03/2026

Meant to post this in January but its all still on!

As usual, the majority of it is London which whilst worth a visit isnt always in everyone's budget. If you want to promote any local shows in the north east send me the details and I will happily give them a shout out! 😊

Must-sees include Beryl Cook’s postwar brilliance, Tracey Emin’s new highs, Frida Kahlo’s confessions, plus Google’s HQ and Gaudí’s finally finished fever dream

27/01/2026

Always a warm welcome 🙏

27/11/2025

Hey folks 👋

New things in the works for next year from us so keep your eyes peeled.

Until then I would suggest a mosey down to the Ouseburn this weekend as its open studios ahoy. There's all the usual spots, and very importantly, dont be missing out our pals at the who are a bit further along the road just past the free trade.

18/09/2024

Arty knees up ahoy- Friday 4th of October be sure to join us for an open studio event. Pop along and say hi, join us for a tipple and maybe some of Mick's famous nibbles ☺️

23/06/2024

For those of you who didn't know, me and a pal host workshops mixing up psychology and art, discussion and general messy art making.

We are getting all dreamy for the next one, looking at our dreams and their hidden meanings. So get ya paintbrushes at the ready and join us at the Cumberland Arms. Or don't get them ready cos all materials are provided 😅👍.

Tickets on TicketLab, search for Sweet Dreams (are made of his) , or use the link
https://ticketlab.co.uk/event/id/26218

26/11/2022

Today's the day folks, just five minutes out the town centre and you can find an abundance of quirky and retro gifts courtesy of studio residents Dearest Retro . Super cheap too!!

Afterwards why not grab a chai latte with our pals round the corner at Earthlings - The healing Cafe ... Or the Earl of Pitt Street isnt far if you require something stronger!!

○●● SAVE THE DATE●●○

SATURDAY NOV 26TH
4-7pm CHRISTMAS SHOPPING Retro BLAC studios Elswick

A whole room full of so many lovely items.
Stocking fillers starting at 50p ♡

17/11/2022

Don't miss this! Dearest Retro are opening their doors 26th November. Come along say hi, and grab some unique, retro stocking fillers..

○●● SAVE THE DATE●●○

SATURDAY NOV 26TH
4-7pm CHRISTMAS SHOPPING Retro BLAC studios Elswick

A whole room full of so many lovely items.
Stocking fillers starting at 50p ♡

Thanks to my niece Eleanor who designed the poster

17/11/2022

Fill your stockings folks, the lovely Dearest Retro is having an open doors Saturday 26th.. Come say hi and grab yourself a bargain

06/11/2022

Hi all, Rachel here. I am co running some workshops combining art and psychology. If you're interested in either, give us a follow and keep an eye out for upcoming events. Next one is this Saturday (12th)

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086975406309

A series of workshops and social events that creatively combines art and Jungian Psychology

05/10/2022

After this class sold out last we week, we decided to do a second run. .. Still places left!! Come along and get creative with a dream.

And if you can, try Dream Incubation. This is a method to engage with your dreams. Before going to sleep, ask your dream maker a question. Maybe try asking your dreams to show you something that would be helpful for you to explore.