19/06/2026
One of the questions we were asked most during Open Studios was:
"Do you actually live here?"
The answer is yes.
Many visitors were surprised to discover that the Green Room and Music Room, which we opened as part of Open Studios, aren't purpose-built studios at all. They're part of the building we've called home for many years.
The Music Room is actually the oldest part of the building, possibly medieval in origin. It's not the kind of light, white studio space people often imagine. Instead it has a character and atmosphere all of its own. Over the years it has hosted workshops, poetry evenings, meditation groups, creative gatherings and even a film crew when Ken Loach came to Masham.
These days the Green Room and Music Room form part of The Happy House, where we host many of our events. They aren't our main studios, but they're spaces where ideas are shared, creativity happens and, on very hot summer days, where we sometimes retreat to work when the attic studio becomes a little too warm.
Perhaps people were surprised because they came through the gallery first. Perhaps it's because galleries are often imagined as separate from everyday life.
But Masham Gallery has always been a little bit of both.
It's where exhibitions are planned, paintings are hung and artists are welcomed. It's also where the kettle goes on, meals are shared and life carries on around the edges.
Over the years, one building has become many things: gallery, studio, meeting place, shop and home.
Open Studios felt like a chance to share a little more of that story. Thank you to everyone who came through the doors and made it such a joyful couple of weekends.
