On 18th February 2022 the Alex felt different. It had been closed as a pub since July 2021 and operating intermittently since the start of COVID. The Brewery was in place but not operating. Its future was uncertain and had been on the market and was about to change hands.
The new owners were Chris Pegler and Steve Davies who wanted studio space and living space close to town/railway. As very active members of the Rugby Artists and Makers Network they knew that there were many artists and makers in Rugby who wanted space to show work, make work and run workshops. Art at the Alex was their idea of a retirement project. Its now just passed its Fourth birthday and has in this time made quite an impression. Initially with very part time opening (34 years in its first year) it now is open to the public three days a week (15 hours) across 10 months. But it is also a hub of activity when closed with five studio artists working here (two are Chris and Steve of course).
Watch out as this is the year we really expect to spread our wings. If you are curious about the first four years and the journey so far visit the exhibition in the Garden Room gallery until end of February.
UPDATE: If you missed the exhibition it has been turned into an ebook here.