I’m writing in response to a ‘Letter to the Editor’ on March 16 where the reader seemed disappointed in the lack of culture and quality of art in Watford.

As someone who has made Watford their home coming from East London, I’ve come to know of lots of different arts groups and performing arts organisations and seen Watford support an independent and creative culture.

Having recently set up an Art Space (Amanartis https://amanartis.co.uk/) that exhibits fine art, has an independent makers shop and offers flexible co-working, I think it’s the very thing your reader may be pleased to know of, and that this has been supported by the council.

In addition is the LP Cafe, which is a great local creative business which has established itself as the go-to for music lovers and collectors, as well as a welcoming place to while away a couple of hours with friends and family as we regularly have. However, in part I agree with your reader which is probably what drove me to create Amanartis. Independent creative organisations are all over Watford, however there hasn’t been a base to meet others with similar interests until now.

My hope for Amanartis is that it will be the place that people think of to see and buy fine art, purchase quality independent products and somewhere your reader can feel proud of and hopeful for. Building a culture and community around the arts and independent businesses will bring a new dimension to Watford. Making Watford a destination not just for brands but for experiences that are unique to Watford. We’ve all had time to reflect, whether we like it or not over the last year, and for many, new ideas, possibilities and desires have emerged. The programme of events and activities that will be held at Amanartis will be designed to nurture the time that has passed and taking the positives from it.

Nurture, that is the focus for Amanartis.

Amma Gyan

By email