Pop-up galleries transform empty shops

Unoccupied shopfronts in Fremantle are being transformed into stunning, creative pop-up galleries thanks to proud local Rosslyn de Souza.

The project is a joint venture between the City of Fremantle, Artsource and landlords which seeks to create attractive spaces for potential tenants while showcasing the works of local artists.

“I’ve had this idea since 2014 but I couldn’t get traction to the point that my husband and I, and two other artist friends, were prepared to fund four art partitions ourselves,” Rosslyn said.

“Fortunately, the City offered to support it and we didn’t have to dip into our own savings.”

The project first launched back in October 2021 with a pilot display in the windows of 13–19 Williams Street—previously occupied by Best & Less.

Since then, there has been works displayed by 25 artists at eight shopfronts across Fremantle.

“We have exhibited a range of 2D and 3D works—paintings, drawings, glasswork, woodcarving and photography,” Rosslyn said.

The works on display are for sale with a piece by artist Helen Majewski recently selling for $550.

Artists interested in participating in the project can join Artsource, which is based in Fremantle and is WA’s premier artist representation body.

“Membership is essential to participate as it ensures the work is presented well, covers artists’ for public indemnity and liability insurance and offers career and educational opportunities,” Rosslyn said.

Landlords are encouraged to get involved in the project, with the exhibitions easily removed within 24 hours.

“The project is of huge benefit to landlords and real estate agents as well as artists,” Rosslyn said.

“Statistics show that empty shops incite vandalism.

“Clean and active windows—particularly with the lights on at night—are a deterrent to anti social behaviour and encourage people to walk down an otherwise dark street on their way to their favourite bar and bistro.”

What’s more, it helps showcase the shop’s potential with LED art lights illuminating the windows 24/7.

So, what motivated Rosslyn to bring this project to life? “I don’t do ugly very well and I find the empty dirty shop fronts depressing,” she said.

“It is easy to criticise without offering a solution, so I decided to put myself out there and offer to do something about it.”

The result is a beautifully presented shopfront that benefits landlords and local artists.

“To see the artist’s work presented in this way on street level is a real buzz,” Rosslyn said.

For more info head to visitfremantle.com.au/streetgallery

Top image credit: Sam de Souza.