● Meet Shopfront
Our Story
Shopfront Arts Co-op is so much more than a youth arts organisation. For 50 years, it’s been a space to show up as you are, and simply be - a place that lives and breathes what it means to be youth-led, where Young People can express themselves freely and be part of a welcoming, inclusive community.
From the moment you step through the blue doors, you're met with warmth and support, encouraged to explore your artistic expressions and expand your horizons.
Our History
The story of Shopfront is a story of community, creativity and survival. Hear about our history from our very own Liv, who created this fantastic documentary of the history of Shopfront.
At Shopfront, every Young Person has a voice.
From our youngest members, to the Emerging Artists beginning their careers – Shopfront truly has Young People at the centre of everything they do, and champions the voices, stories and lived experiences of diverse Young People.
This doesn’t just nurture great artists, but empowers Young People to become critical thinkers, confident creators, and compassionate and empathetic people. It is so important to have a place for Young People to connect, create and feel their ideas being valued - because they are!
Shopfront Members
● You are part of the Shopfront Collective
Shopfront is a Co-operative. Being a Shopfront member comes many perks; voting on issues that matter to you, accessing discounted tickets and enjoying reduced or free venue hire rates, pitching your ideas for our annual members’ production, or chatting to our Shopfront Young Leader about ideas or any issues concerning you.
● Annual General Meeting
The Annual General Meeting (AGM) helps you understand how Shopfront works and how you can have an active voice within our organisation.
In 2026, the AGM will be followed by a Shopfront Member Day, where Young People can feedback on artistic programming and governance of the organisation. Led by Shopfront’s Young Leader, and Workshop Coordinator.
● Advisory Panels
Since 2022, Shopfront’s Advisory Panels have played a key role in shaping our vision, helping us stay current and responsive to the needs of our community and members. These five panels, made up of representatives from our core stakeholder groups, meet regularly to discuss important issues aligned with both their values and those of Shopfront.
● Shopfront Young Leader
Meet Sophie
Shopfront has been my second home since I was eleven years old. Many years later, here I still am!
It's no mystery why I've stuck around for so long. Every day I am at Shopfront I am reminded of the power this beautiful community has to uplift young voices in the arts and beyond. But my favourite part of being Young Leader is our workshop participants - the Young People who I am lucky enough to see every week working on things that they are passionate about, taking risks, building friendships, and supporting each other. Thank you for sharing your art, interests, and hilarious ideas with me, and for being experts at playing "The Mind"! I am so proud of you all.