Windows of the former Knight and Lee building in Portsmouth transformed into 'inspiring' art exhibition

The windows of the former Knight and Lee department store in Palmerston have been transformed into the Select Dream exhibition showcasing 27 original pieces by south coast artists.

Local artists Kate Street and Patrick Galway had been planning the display for earlier in the year, however, it was delayed by the coronavirus pandemic.

Since then a total of £4,060 was crowdfunded to pay for the installation, with £1,000 from the public, £2,000 from the city council's community infrastructure levy and £1,000 from That Group - which will be redeveloping the site in the future.

Kate said: 'The concept behind the project is that some of the objects used in the pieces would have been for sale in the department store - the result being a surreal, humorous and engaging display for everyone to enjoy during these strange times.

'Thanks to all those who helped make it happen - from the artists for their intriguing work, to That Group and Portsmouth City Council for the space and funding, and everyone in the community who contributed to our fundraising effort.'

SEE ALSO: Hotel and cinema plans for Knight and Lee approved

Portsmouth City Council's culture boss, Councillor Steve Pitt, believed the exhibition would benefit the community.

'It's great to see this exciting project brought to life in Southsea,' he said.

'It's an inspiring creative endeavour that brings new and original art to the city streets for us all to enjoy and shows just one of the ways community infrastructure levy can be used to benefit local communities in different and interesting ways.'

The exhibition will run until next year and remain in place when the re-development of the former John Lewis shop begins.

Planning permission has already been granted to convert the building into retail space, offices, a cinema and hotel.

Peter Tisdale, chief executive of That Group, added: 'The exhibition reflects the creativity of the area and it's fantastic to see original art brought onto the streets during these challenging times. It's the ideal way to bridge the gap before our exciting re-development plans get underway.'

It is planned re-development work will start at the end of this year.

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