In 2011 Grizedale Arts has focused on the development of the local village hall in Coniston. Originally established as a Mechanics Institute with the current building initiated and developed by John Ruskin and his local associates, the building has a rich history with a remarkable collection of Ruskin associated material donated by Ruskin, his friends and villagers – the collection has been archived and is displayed in the new Ruskin Museum attached to the old institute.

The Institute itself offers an amazing village resource with a theatre, kitchen, library, snooker room and several ancillary rooms. However, as it was in need of restoration, the building had been underused for a long time.

Grizedale Arts initiated a series of volunteer weekends; two days of hard work punctuated by hearty stews and home made cakes and biscuits. These days now known as Boon Days and run by the Boon Day group have steadily repaired and repainted the building, repaired the roof, raised money and are the process of installing a new kitchen.  The work continues as further improvements are envisioned.

Alongside the improvements programme Grizedale have asked artists on the residency programme to look at developing projects that will activate the building and village. 

Boon Day Group