No fear as arts space rebrands

A ONE-stop location for art exhibitions, workshops, and creative consignments has rebranded.

Formerly known as Femxle Experience Art Rebellion, or FEAR, the Bridge Mall space officially re-launched as TBH Studio earlier this month.

Co-founder Holly Would said the name change aims to make everyone feel welcome.

“We found the name Femxle Experience Art Rebellion was sometimes not as inclusive,” she said.

“It was never intended to be that way, of course. It was a way of identifying our partners, but we received feedback that some people felt they couldn’t come in or were unsure whether they were welcome.

“Changing over to TBH Studio, we’re hoping people are now aware it’s for everybody and that it’s a welcoming space.”

Ms Would said the change hasn’t just been in name only.

“We’ve overhauled the space, pulled out the artwork, put stuff back up, and rearranged everything to give it a cleaner, professional look,” she said.

The rebranding of TBH Studio is derived from the first names of the space’s founders, Toni Louise, Brittany Wallmeyer, and Would.

Adopted about a month ago, the change is also to reflect the departure of FEAR co-founder Maggie Schirmer.

Since rebranding, Ms Would said TBH Studio has already seen an influx of new visitors.

“We’ve found a lot of new people are coming into the space who we haven’t met yet, so it’s really cool we’re inviting that new group of people in,” she said.

“We’re wanting to engage the public more in the arts, making sure we’re having more workshops available more regularly, and trying to get people into the space.”

The site’s back area, mainly used for workshops, is set to also be used as a dedicated exhibition space. TBH Studio is located at 57 Bridge Mall.