School of Art & Science, Macclesfield

Art education in Macclesfield began in 1833 with the provision of evening classes for the benefit of the town's working population. Building on the success of these early classes the Useful Knowledge Society was formed in 1835. In 1836 the Government founded the National Design School to counter dissatisfaction with the standards of design throughout the country. By 1844 branch schools had spread to eight large manufacturing centres. In Macclesfield the Useful Knowledge Society continued to provide art education with the support of local manufacturers and benefactors. Government funding was granted in 1851 when the Macclesfield School of Design was opened in rooms rented from the Useful Knowledge Society on Park Green. By 1873 the school had trained 77 designers and 145 weavers. As the school expanded and diversified purpose- built premises were needed. Local architect J. Stevens drew up the plans which had to be submitted to South Kensington for approval. The Macclesfield School of Art & Science opened in 1879 having cost £3000 to build and a further £1500 to fit out.

The School soon established an excellent reputation for training designers. At the turn of the century it was one of the top art schools in the country. As the demand for luxury silks began to fall in the 1920's the number of students also fell and the school's reputation went into decline. After the Second World War the school became part of the Macclesfield College of Further Education. Designers continued to study at the college despite the closure of the weaving department in 1957. The School of Art building was used by the Macclesfield College of Further Education until the 1990's. and is now part of Macclesfield Silk Museum.

MACCLESFIELD SCHOOL OF ART - On Monday afternoon the Macclesfield School of Art was opened. It has been erected at a cost of £5,500. The architect is Mr James Stevens, F.R.I.B.A., of Manchester and Macclesfield. It is in the Gothic style, and is well lighted and ventilated. [Building News 20 June 1873 page 703]

Reference    Manchester Guardian Saturday 7 August 1875 Page 5 (Contracts)
Reference    Building News 20 June 1873 page 703 - opening