St Georges Arts Centre & Cafe - Creativity and Community in Gravesend
Posted on 20th January 2025

Located in the heart of St George's Centre, the Arts Centre & Café is a vibrant hub for art, culture, and community. Opened in December 2021, this unique venue offers exhibitions, performances, workshops and a bustling café, bringing people together in a celebration of creativity.
As a vibrant hub for art and community, the centre has become a focal point for collaboration and artistic growth, attracting talent from across the borough and beyond.
Mandy Hare, Cultural Manager for Communities and Inclusive Growth at Gravesham Borough Council, reflects on its impact:
“Gravesham artists and creatives had long been lobbying for new opportunities and the stars aligned to develop plans. With a focus on creating a cultural strategy that prioritises the health and wellbeing of residents and artists alike, we’ve ensured a thriving and inclusive environment, bringing new artists - from hobbyists to professional creatives - into the centre and the wider Gravesham community.”
Bringing the Vision to Life - The Arts Centre Story
The Arts Centre was the brainchild of Shane Mochrie-Cox, the then Cabinet Member for Leisure, who recognised the need for a dedicated arts space to complement Gravesham Borough Council’s Woodville venue. The two units the centre occupies had been vacant for some time, and the opportunity to transform them into a cultural hub aligned with the longstanding calls from local artists and creatives for more opportunities.
Although plans were delayed due to the pandemic, the project continued behind the scenes, culminating in funding from the South East Local Enterprise Partnership to create a fully equipped and high-quality facility. Despite opening during the challenging circumstances of late 2021, the centre has flourished ever since, drawing enthusiasm and support from the local community.

A Space for Everyone - How We Support Creativity and Community
At the heart of St George’s Arts Centre is a commitment to fostering creativity and community involvement. This mission is reflected in a range of initiatives that encourage participation and artistic growth:
Artist-in-Residence Studio: In 2022, the studio was occupied by Mona Whitton, who has developed a series of workshops and community arts sessions over the past 2.5 years. These sessions have brought new artists, from hobbyists to professional creatives, into the centre and the wider Gravesham community.
Art is for All Co-operative: This innovative group, who originally formed at the Arts Centre, transforms vacant spaces into functional studios or retail venues, creating fresh opportunities for artists to work and share their creativity.
Workshops and Engagements: Regular workshops offer families and creatives the chance to explore art, learn new skills, and connect with others in a welcoming environment.
Annual Festivals: The Arts Centre is a key part of Gravesham’s cultural calendar, contributing to the Light Festival, Fringe Festival, and Franklin Festival, which bring vibrancy and artistic energy to the community.
These initiatives showcase the Arts Centre’s dedication to nurturing creativity and making art accessible to everyone.

Arctic Adventures Show
The Arts Centre hosts an eclectic mix of exhibitions, ranging from local artists and art groups to national and international touring organisations. Its events calendar also includes twice-monthly live music sessions in the café, family shows, and comedy performances.
In December 2024, the centre proudly presented its first dedicated Christmas show for children aged 3–6, Little Bear’s Christmas Wish, in collaboration with Play on Words Theatre Company.
The St George's Café Adjacent to the St George’s Arts Centre
Since opening in early 2022, the adjacent Café has become an integral part of the Arts Centre. Known for its homemade treats, excellent coffee and inviting atmosphere, the café is almost always bustling with life and community. Its charm perfectly complements the creative energy of the centre, offering visitors a welcoming space to relax and connect.

Visit St George’s Arts Centre & Café
Whether you enjoy exploring art exhibitions, attending a workshop or simply enjoying a cup of coffee, St George’s Arts Centre & Café is a place to connect, create and be inspired.
Arts Centre Opening Times:
Tuesday – Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Sunday: 10:30 AM – 4:30 PM
Monday: Closed
Café Opening Times:
Tuesday – Sunday: 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM
Monday: Closed
For more information, visit their Facebook page and discover the creative pulse of Gravesend.
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