The latest Inside Stories event from Inverness Chamber of Commerce gave members a rare and fascinating behind-the-scenes look at one of the Highlands’ most vibrant creative spaces, Inverness Creative Academy.
This beautifully redeveloped site, a £6 million transformation of the former Midmills buildings, is now the Highlands’ first major creative hub. Operated by Wasps (Workshops and Artists Studio Provision Scotland) Ltd, the venue forms part of a wider network of creative spaces stretching from Shetland to Skye and Nairn and plays a vital role in supporting Scotland’s cultural and creative sectors.
Attendees heard from Wasps’ representatives about the vision, journey, and practical challenges of transforming two listed buildings into a modern, dynamic space that is now home to over 30 artists and creative businesses. The team also highlighted some of the social impact work delivered from the hub, including creative programmes aimed at supporting young people in care.
The group then enjoyed a guided tour of the facilities, beginning in the stunning, light-filled café area – run by local business Café De Paulo – before moving through to the Creative Industries wing. This area includes modern, flexible office spaces, hot desks, and bookable meeting rooms, ideal for collaboration between creative entrepreneurs and businesses.
One of the most talked-about moments of the evening was the walk through the transformed gym hall – now a stylish, adaptable space regularly used for exhibitions, networking events, makers markets, and corporate away days.
“Looking at the old photographs of the school gym, the transformation of this space is just remarkable,” said Paula Nicol, Head of Events and Deputy CEO at Inverness Chamber of Commerce. “We used it recently for one of our speed networking events, and it was just fabulous – a lovely, clean, open room that can be tailored to your needs.”
The tour continued into the heart of the artistic community, where attendees had the chance to meet resident artists, view their incredible work, and see a jewellery-making workshop in progress. A standout highlight was the demonstration in the Highlands’ only open-access darkroom, supported by generous donations of high-spec photographic equipment.
Among those attending was Jenni Donnelly, General Manager at The Oxygen Works, who said, “We had an amazing experience seeing behind the scenes at WASPS on Thursday evening. It was a really well organised event as always by the Inverness Chamber and one which not only allowed us to meet with other organisations but was also informative and enlightening. As someone who has popped into WASPS a few times I had no idea what actually went on behind the scenes and it was great to get the Inside Story!
“I would obviously absolutely recommend the Inside Stories events to others as you never know what you are going to learn or who you are going to meet. A perfect networking event. A special mention as well to the Café De Paulo staff who provided such delicious refreshments!”
Chris Hawkes, Co-founder of Strut, added: “The recent Inside Stories event at WASPS offered a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at this vibrant creative hub. I was genuinely surprised by the diverse range of creative businesses based there. As a creative business owner myself, I made some truly valuable connections during the visit.
“Having attended several Inside Stories events now, I find them not only engaging and insightful but also a fantastic opportunity for informal networking. The relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to connect with others and build meaningful professional relationships.”
This Inside Stories event reinforced the value of stepping inside the spaces that help shape the region’s economy and culture. These behind-the-scenes experiences give Chamber members not only the chance to discover innovative work happening locally, but also the opportunity to make meaningful business connections.
Paula added, “While these events provide a rare opportunity to really learn about different organisations and sectors, the importance of the conversations and discussions they generate cannot be overstated.”
Keep an eye on our Events page for future Inside Stories and upcoming opportunities to explore the region’s most exciting business spaces.
