Stockport’s empty Debenhams to be brought back to life for one night ‘art battle’ event

Stockport’s branch of Debenhams is to be revived in September for one night only, as it plays host to Art Battle, the event where artists go head to head to create one-off pieces of art. The department store closed down last year, along with many others across the country, after the company went into administration.

It had been a fixture on Stockport’s high street for 45 years, linking the Merseyway shopping centre and the Red Rock complex. But it’s been left empty ever since.

Art Battle co-Founder John Macaulay said: “It was a no brainer to come to Stockport; there’s a thriving cultural scene and strong independent vibe. There will be a festival atmosphere on the night and some of Stockport’s top artists hoping for victory with home advantage.

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“We help turn artists into 'art stars' and the huge crowd - many of whom have never set foot in an art gallery - really play their part too. It’s art for the people, by the people.”

This will be the 20th Art Battle event, since it started in 2013. For its locations in the past it’s used mills and warehouses, along with more recognisable locations like the London Road Fire Station, the Albert Hall, The Royal Exchange, Victoria Baths and Escape to Freight Island.

For the event at Debenhams - dubbed 'Upbeat On The High Street' - 10 artists, from painters and illustrators to tattooists and graffiti artists, will compete against each other. They're given 30 minutes to create a piece of art, with the artworks being judged by the crowd who then decide the winner.

As well as the live artwork taking place, there will also be food and drink vendors on site, as well as other