At first sight, The Loft At Lower Parel, a new art studio, is reminiscent of a little SoHo loft in Manhattan. Step in, and the subtle monochromatic ambience lit up by northern light brings you to a quaint, yet sophisticated art space. So how is The Loft different from the dozen new galleries that have sprung up in the city? “It’s not a gallery,” Anupa Mehta, owner, art consultant and writer quickly clarifies, “it’s a studio space for creative interaction, national and international residencies and a source for quality art.”

The first of its kind in Mumbai, the studio allows artists to use the space to put their ideas into action, hence the term residency. “They can develop their ideas and creative practices and work freely for up to a month. After which, they get to exhibit their creations,” explains Mehta.

Owning an art space may seem like an appealing prospect to many. But it does come with complications, mainly monetary ones. “Unlike the West, India doesn’t have many art funding organisations or committees. The Loft is not merely driven by commerce. It’s definitely revenue based, but the money generated is pumped back into the whole process of running it.” She continues, “I am on the lookout for people to sponsor the artists’ residencies.”

Kick-starting this new trend, Stephen Dixon a well-known artist from Manchester will be utilising the space for working on manuscripts for 20 days. His renowned ceramic plates and drawings based on Hindu goddesses will also be showcased this month between the 18th and 30th. “Stephen offered to come to Mumbai even without seeing the studio. His accommodation is sponsored by Sangita Jindal and her Art India magazine and JSW Foundation. I am also in talks with a few more people for sponsorship,” she says.

Mehta wants the space to be more interactive and a centre for the amalgamation of various forms of art. “It’s sad that in our country visual arts, theatre, films and other forms are all treated as different media. Artists get inspired by each other. It’s a different story in the West,” she says. She plans to use the space for showcasing monologues, book readings, workshops and interactions amongst other things. “I want to give new writers and upcoming play writers an audience. I plan to hold such sessions at least every alternate Sunday,” she enthuses.

So what does this space mean to her? “Freedom. A place where artists are under no pressure, where art gets the respect it deserves, and where art lovers come to see the works – not to socialise or pose for the paparazzi. The Loft is a place for intimate displays of quality art.”