New Art Gallery Opens in Todmorden with 'Surface Tension' Exhibition from 27 June 2026

A new art gallery has opened its doors in Todmorden, and it is making quite a splash with its first exhibition titled Surface Tension. Located at the 9a Project Space in Robinwood Mill, this exciting venture aims to connect art, landscape, and community in a unique way. The exhibition runs from 27 June to 26 July 2026 and features the works of two talented artists: Kelly Chorpening from Nevada and local artist Kate Atkin.

Exhibition Overview

Surface Tension is an inaugural exhibition for 9a Project Space, which operates as a community interest company. This means it prioritises the interests of the community and aims to create a welcoming space for local artists and residents. The exhibition showcases new drawing works that emerged from a creative collaboration between Chorpening and Atkin, who share a passion for exploring the landscapes they inhabit.

Close-up of textured abstract artwork in earth tones

Abstract charcoal sketch with textured patterns on white paper

The inspiration for the exhibition came from a memorable visit Chorpening made to the Calder Valley in 2025, where she took a long walk across the moors. This experience influenced her artwork, as she compared the desert landscapes of Nevada with the post-industrial moorland of Todmorden. According to the artists, the act of walking played a significant role in the creation of their pieces, blending the experiences of nature with the process of making art. Atkin describes their work as a way of "drawing in the field," which reflects a method of recording the environment similar to what geographers and archaeologists used to do.

The Artists

Kelly Chorpening is a Professor and Chair of the Department of Art, Art History and Design at the University of Nevada, Reno. She has previously exhibited at 9a in 2022 as part of a group show called Chronicles by Phantom Limn. Her work often focuses on the relationship between the surface of the paper and the surfaces encountered during her walks, using techniques like embossing and frottage. These methods allow her to create textures and layers that reflect her surroundings.

Kate Atkin, based in Todmorden, is an artist who has been actively involved in the local art scene. She hosted a solo exhibition at 9a in 2023 called Mute Objects, showcasing her distinctive style and approach to art. Atkin is passionate about the connection between the local landscape and artistic expression, making her a fitting collaborator for Chorpening in this exhibition.

A Unique Catalogue

The exhibition is accompanied by a specially designed catalogue that resembles a folded map, created by graphic designer Myriam Waldbillig. This catalogue includes contributions from Isabel Seligman, the Curator of Modern and Contemporary Drawings at The British Museum, and Kelly Loughlin, the Curator and co-Director of 9a Project Space. This unique publication not only showcases the artwork but also provides insight into the artists' thoughts and processes.

Workshops and Community Engagement

In addition to the exhibition, 9a Project Space plans to host a series of drawing workshops throughout July. These workshops will be inspired by the themes of Surface Tension and offer participants a chance to engage with the artistic process. There will also be a guided tour led by Curator Kelly Loughlin and Artist Kate Atkin on 25 July, providing visitors with an opportunity to learn more about the exhibition and the creative journey behind it.

Support and Funding

The exhibition has been made possible thanks to the support of Arts Council England and Todmorden Town Council, alongside additional backing from Eagles Crag Brewery. This funding highlights the importance of community support in bringing art to local areas and fostering a vibrant cultural scene.

Visitor Information

For those interested in exploring this new artistic venture, Surface Tension can be visited at the 9a Project Space, located at Robinwood Mill on Burnley Road, Todmorden, OL14 8JA. The exhibition is open from 27 June to 26 July 2026, offering plenty of time for art lovers and curious visitors to experience the work of these two talented artists.

9a Project Space is committed to making art accessible to everyone and creating a space where local residents can connect with artists and each other. As a community interest company, it aims to nurture relationships and provide opportunities for growth within the local arts scene. With its inaugural exhibition, 9a is set to become a significant part of Todmorden's cultural landscape.