Interactive art project coming to ex Middlesbrough M&S

Happy Rooms, an engaging art project by Stellar Creates aims to bring joy and colours to its visitors, will open in Middlesbrough’s former Marks and Spencer store.

From August 3 until September 22, the building will be transformed into two floors of happiness-themed rooms, designed by a diverse group of artists.

Lyndsey Stephenson, director of Stellar Creates, said: “Our high streets are changing and we hope that Happy Rooms will be a fun addition to Middlesbrough town centre, albeit for a limited time.

“The whole aim of our summer project is to celebrate and promote happiness.”

(Image: Stellar Creates)

Fellow director Rachel Willis added: “There really is something for everyone across the twelve Happy Rooms and we are delighted to be part of the HAF Programme ensuring it is available to as wide an audience as possible.”

Designed to suit all, Happy Rooms will be open to visitors from Wednesday to Sunday during August, leaving Mondays and Tuesdays for the Holiday Activity Fund (HAF) Programme activities.

However, during September, the doors will be open to the public from Friday to Sunday, with school groups invited to participate every Monday to Thursday.

The curation encourages visitors to define happiness for themselves as they explore what it means to feel and be happy.

(Image: Stellar Creates)

Imagination will be set into overdrive in the numerous rooms such as the Flutter of Joy, where visitors can celebrate special moments under a shower of confetti, and Happy as the Day is Long, a mirrored room filled with bright colours and a specially curated playlist.

There is also an engaging digital colouring book, a creation by MakeAmplify, where visitors can use iPads to colour murals inspired by Tees Valley’s nature and wildlife.

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Afterwards, they can watch as their artworks are projected larger than life onto the walls.

The Marble Run by creators, Wild Rumpus, will see visitors create large marble tracks using items like broomsticks, lampshades, bamboo, and piping.

Moreover, visitors can pledge to spread joy in the Pass It On room and receive free ice cream in return.

Happy Rooms will operate from 10am until 4pm, with experiences lasting 60-90 minutes.

On top of the room experiences, there will be creative activities, artist pop-ups and a Happy Tuck Shop available.

Tickets are £5 for children and £7 for adults.

The Northern Echo | What’s On