Liverpool Academy of Arts

By Diane Jansen - 8/10/2014

The Academy of Arts closed to the public on the 28th August 2014 to make way for student flats. June Lornie who ran The Academy had been in Seel Street approx 43 years. It took its name from the organisation originally set up by William Roscoe in 1810.

June was originally in 36 Seel Street which was founded in 1988 by the late sculptor Arthur Dooley who had a studio in the basement and when I visited he was happy to show me round and talk about his work. They also put on plays, concerts and art exhibitions and June did all the organisation and Allan Johnston gave financial support.

Later on June was offered 32 Seel Street working with her husband Dave and eager volunteers. The building was large, open and very light with disabled access. Its aim was to make art accessible to all the community and at reasonable prices to buy or exhibit. They showed works by Adrian Henri and Don McKinley amongst others.

One of the memorable exhibitions for me was on Toilets!!! This was the first time I had exhibited and I took pictures of well known toilets such as the Town Hall, the Philharmonic Pub and an art installation on Cairns Street. June was also a theatrical costumier and many of her works where featured especially Miss Haversham’s amazing dress made of toilet rolls.

This is what made The Academy so unique with its very varied exhibits such as The Beatles, Cats, Abstract, and to celebrate 25 years a silver theme. June and all the staff welcomed visitors with open arms no matter who they where. I always came away with a smile on my face. They had the building rent free but paid rates and relied on donations and fees. The roof leaked and if visitors came in when it was raining they would think the buckets where part of the display.

The new owners T. J. Thomas Estates Group have several properties in Seel Street, which are now or going to be converted into bars, restaurants and student flats. Meanwhile June is looking for a suitable space, so far the ones which have been offered have been too small.

In Liverpool a lot of the buildings are being left to decay, such as The Futurist, (the roof of which is beyond repair I believe), the ABC and The Trade Union Centre, which was formally a blind school. This last building is open for the Biennial till the 26th October with so called art. This includes, in the entrance, an ice making machine transforming heat into cold and as you walk in. You have to walk over a big huge puddle of water (I wonder who you would sue if you slip). There is a mop to hand and you can use it if you are so inclined to. Most people say the art is the building itself which hopefully will not be turned into another hotel. It would be an ideal space for the Academy Of Arts and other organisation in the community, with its own café. But I guess that would be a pipe dream.

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