Square Edge

In 2020 Square Edge celebrated 40 years as Palmerston North’s community arts centre. In the celebratory exhibition, one local resident described the space as one where “Beautiful people, anyone can come in and enjoy themselves - it’s like a village on its own.” And that it is. Inside you’ll find an array of galleries, stores, workshops, studios, community spaces and even a café.

Square Edge stands on what was the original city council building constructed 128 years ago. After being pulled down, the city replaced the building with the current, stunning art deco structure in 1945. Upon entry, you’ll be greeted immediately by whatever local artworks happen to be on display. The exhibitions in the entry, main foyer and workshop rotate every month, meaning there are always new mediums on display.

As you walk down the wide hall, you’ll discover private gallery spaces and studios where the artists themselves are often working with open door policies. Have a chat to any of them to learn more about their work. And don’t be afraid to head upstairs where you’ll find even more tenetted studio spaces. Square Edge even hosts three artists in residence every year on the third floor. If you’re lucky, you might just get to meet them and see their work, too.

Towards the back of the first level, you’ll find FX, Square Edge’s performing art space and Café Royale. Café Royale offers coffee, tasty café plates, craft beer, cocktails and frequent live music events. Continue through the double doors and find more studios, the arts recycling and design center and Green Bike Trust amongst others.

Square Edge truly is a creative village with a delightful hum, but it doesn’t stop there. The event schedule has included arts for wellbeing workshops, crepe making classes, drag bingo, sound bath sessions, drop in French workshops for kids, makers markets and the like.

Square Edge is a complete celebration of this community and its people. Artist in residence Derrick Sims, summed it up well when he said “Those three months, living upstairs, meeting new artists and mentoring students in a new land all while completing my movie, made for one of the best and most fondly remembered moments of my life”. Come experience this special spot for yourself.