The Denmark Art Club has breathed new life into the old Murphy’s workshop since it opened for classes earlier this year.

Bought by art teacher Kendel Lynam, and her husband Nick in 2020, the once dilapidated shed has undergone a major transformation and created an artistic hub for young and old students.

Built in 1984 by William Murphy, using metal frames from Sweden, the shed was originally used by William and his brother Alan for their farm machinery repair business.

The shed has been used for several purposes since the Murphys first sold it, including being a furniture gallery and a base for a local tour operator.

Kendel said that even though the building was listed as being ‘of heritage interest’ she could have demolished it but decided to retain the structure due to its history and rustic charm.

“The old timber doors are more than 30 years old and hand-built by a local craftsman and I really wanted to retain the exposed framework,” Kendel said.

After completing the two-year renovation, Kendel moved her art classes from her home garage into Murphy’s shed and student numbers increased from just a handful to 80 in a matter of months.

Art club at home in old shed

Kendel’s students range in age from 3-94 and include classes for children with special needs and those with early onset dementia.

The hands-on classes cover a wide range of artistic fïelds including collage, drawing, painting, sewing and working with clay.

“We also have lots of kids that come and hang out here after school before their class starts as it’s a safe and comfortable place to be,” Kendel said.

“I even have a few teenagers helping me with the early onset dementia class and this intergenerational experience is beneficial for everyone.”

The club recently held its first expedition of student work and Kendel hopes to hold more events like this in the future.

The art club has also been involved in supporting many community projects, the most recent of these is the creation of the vibrant background art for signage, banners and brochures for next year’s Brave New Works.

The article appeared in the Denmark Bulletin, 18 August 2022.

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