Our journey began in London back in 2002, where we were originally stationed in the former ticket office of West Hampstead Railway Station. The original building inspired the name ‘Metal’ as steel works were discovered in the space where Sir Anthony Caro had a range of his 1960’s steel sculptures and Tom Hunter had been running a steel workshop. After operating there for 3 years, we were drawn to relocate to places with an appetite for more creative infrastructures, to focus on expanding possibilities for the arts in a wider range of places. We now work from sites in Liverpool (since 2004), Southend-on-Sea (since 2007) and Peterborough (since 2012), providing multidisciplinary residencies and development opportunities for artists from the UK and overseas.
In Liverpool, we work from the historic buildings of Edge Hill Station, the oldest active passenger railway station in the world. The original 1830s buildings now serve as a space for artists and surrounding neighbourhoods, continuing the building’s proud legacy of innovation and creativity. Read more about our Metal Liverpool space, programme, partnerships, access and hire here.
In Peterborough, our home is Chauffeurs Cottage, the original gatehouse property at the entrance to the impressive Peterborough Cathedral behind the ancient wall and castle-like gateway. The house was renovated by ourselves in partnership with Peterborough City Council, and now provides a welcoming and stimulating space for artists to create with the wider communities of Peterborough. Read more about our Metal Peterborough space, programme, partnerships, access and hire here.
In Southend, we renovated the previously unused Chalkwell Hall, built in 1830, to form our base. The four storey Grade II listed Georgian building sits within the grounds of Chalkwell Park, and the hall has a fantastic position at the brow of a hill, offering magnificent views across the Thames Estuary. Read more about our Metal Southend space, programme, partnerships, access and hire here.
Southend
Peterborough
Liverpool
