Studio Warehouse, the exciting, innovative arts facility in Glasgow’s West End, which offers open plan studios for rent to local artists, has already established itself as a jewel in the cultural cityscape. Run by visual artist and curator Mutley, it currently offers studio space for 35 artists and a photography space for commercial and editorial shoots. The venue won further attention in 2005 when it was selected as temporary home to the first ‘Comme des Garçons’ Guerrilla Store in the UK.

Now the movers and shakers behind SWG3 are taking their vision for a first class hub for artists from Scotland and beyond to its next ambitious phase, developing four rehearsal studios, and a pair of recording studios. There are also proposals for two new galleries: the Customs Gallery, showcasing live music and art, and the Excise Gallery, which will provide a shop window for visual art.

Organisers are also planning to run this multidisciplinary space along eco-friendly, energy self-sufficient lines, including developing a wood-chip burning heating system, a green roof (creating a green view for patients at nearby Yorkhill hospital) and a bio-mass fresh water system.

While these ideas are still at the germinal stage, SWG3 are kicking things off in earnest with a fundraiser event and celebration on Wed 6 December. The eclectic evening of contemporary art, music and fashion includes an exhibition and auction of works by resident artists as well as donated works and postcards by some of the country’s most established artists. The event will also launch the auction of Turner prize nominee Jim Lambie’s paisley painted Daimler (pictured) and provide a rare opportunity to view Comme des Garçons vintage and current seasons for both men and women accompanied by the music of Moog Groove.

All money raised from the event will contribute towards the future development of what sounds an important sustainable building for Scotland’s arts community.

www.swg3.org