Nestled at 5 Otley Road, lies Beam Works Leeds -a giclée fine art print studio and shop that pulses with local creativity and community spirit.
When Beam Works first launched in 2018, it was based in Castleton Mill, a Grade II listed former flax mill on the Leeds & Liverpool Canal in Armley. The name “Beam” is a nod both to the industrial beams of that historic building and to the idea of light and creativity-a fitting reflection of its mission to support and showcase local art.
A hub for local creativity
Beam Works is more than a print studio-it’s a celebration of the local art scene. The shop is stocked with beautiful artwork by local creatives, as well as art and craft supplies, offering visitors an ever-changing showcase of pieces that capture a wide array of styles and narratives.
Sustainability is woven into everything they do, and they’ve found a creative way to celebrate it. Offcuts, test prints, posters, and packaging are transformed into unique recycled notebooks and sketchbooks. Each one-of-a-kind book combines varied paper types, flashes of colour, and doodles-perfect for your sketches, journalling, or lists. Next time you visit, pick one up and take home a playful reminder of Beam Works’ ethos of reuse, imagination, and community care.
Workshops without pressure
When not attending to print jobs or curating the shop, the Beam Works team collaborates on community projects, events, and partnerships with local creatives and neighbours. The space at the back of the shop provides a flexible area for affordable workshops, giving artists, makers, and enthusiasts a welcoming environment to learn, create, and connect.
The affordability of these workshops means attendees can play and experiment without the pressure of producing a finished masterpiece. Unlike costly workshops where participants may feel they must leave with a complete artwork to justify the expense, Beam Works encourages a spirit of exploration, creativity, and enjoyment-valuing the process over the end result.
Beam Works is also closely linked to Left Bank Leeds, a multidisciplinary arts space housed in a former church in Hyde Park. Left Bank is known for hosting exhibitions, gigs, talks, workshops, and community projects, making it a vital hub for creativity and culture in the city. This connection further strengthens Beam Works’ ties to the wider Leeds creative community.
Beam Works Leeds is involved in a new illustrated mural, coming soon to Headingley. This exciting project will reflect the community as a whole, showcasing the spirit and vibrancy of the local area.
A not-for-profit with heart
They hold a special position as a Community Interest Company (CIC), meaning they operate with a social purpose-reinvesting any surplus to benefit the community.
Artists & Photographers: High-quality giclée printing and archival scanning – affordable and on-site.
Art Lovers & Collectors: The shop is constantly refreshed with striking works from local artists, making it a treasure trove for discovering and supporting creative talent.
Businesses: Looking to commission an artist?
Being deeply rooted in the city’s creative communities Beam Works Leeds can help guide and recommend the right artist for your project.
Whether you’re popping in to browse original art, pick up recycled notebooks, or discuss print services, Beam Works Leeds offers a welcoming and creatively charged environment.
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