Iconic building perfect new home for Paisley's Art Department

dailyrecord.co.uk:

One of Paisley’s most iconic buildings is to be brought back to life as it becomes home to the Art Department.The former Argos building on Causeyside Street will once again become a jewel in Paisley’s crown as the arts organisation seeks to return it to its former glory.The art-deco building, constructed in 1931, is currently being stripped back as part of an ambitious plan to create a gallery in the heart of the town and a creative space for people of all abilities and talents.The team behind the renowned Big Art Show will move into the building in April ahead of the Artists of Accord Exhibition, while work to the main gallery space is expected to be concluded by July.Much of the work – which has to date revealed a decorative teak ceiling at the main entrance and an almost intact Darney sandstone ceiling with high pilaster columns on the second-floor gallery – is being supported by Renfrewshire Council’s sustainable communities fund.The new space marks an exciting new chapter for the Art Department which is currently operating from the Paisley Centre.Steven Thomson, creative director of The Art Department, said: “The Paisley Centre is closing soon for redevelopment, and we wanted to find a new, permanent home.“When we moved into Allders, we were captivated by this beautiful building across the road and when we saw it was up for lease, we decided to investigate.Renfrewshire Live, the new free app dedicated to bringing you around the clock breaking news, is now available to download.Powered by the Paisley Daily Express, Renfrewshire Live is your go-to source for news, features and sport with live coverage provided direct to the app, seven days a week.The dedicated team of experienced journalists, responsible for the