First Light Studio will be free for artists to use.
Batu is launching a new community-first space in Bristol called First Light Studio. Created in partnership with Dr. Martens, First Light Studio opens its doors on 17 June and is taking bookings online from today (20 May). The new space is located inside the community hub Trinity Centre. It was designed to nurture emerging talent from Bristol’s local music scene and level out the industry’s playing field by providing artists with a no cost space to develop their skills. Free sessions will be available to artists who don’t have access to their own studio, and the space is open to those looking to run workshops inside.
The project is a response to some of the challenges artists have faced during the pandemic, such as financial hardship. It’s also part of the Dr. Martens Presents series, which aims to help local, grassroots creative communities. The legacy brand has helped to build the studio, install professional equipment and cover the rent.
“So many people have helped me along the way and I’ve received a huge amount of support from the community around me,” Batu says on the project. “Privately renting a studio is an expense that is prohibitive for a lot of up and coming artists, and there should be more access for free.”
“I’m really proud to bring First Light Studio to life with the support of Dr. Martens, and help give Bristol’s talented network of up and coming artists the support they need.”
A schedule of workshops and mentorship sessions has been created to mark the launch of the studio. Hodge will lead one-on-one feedback sessions, and David Harvard of Elder Island will host a workshop on pedal effects. A beginners workshop will also be helmed by Mix Nights, and Sir Hiss will break down the process behind making a grime track in an intimate session. Dates are yet to be announced, but workshops will take place in July.
Head to the First Light Studio site for more information and to book a session online.
