On 29 January 2025, the Ziran Education Foundation attended the Reading Foundation for Art event, featuring renowned textile artist Alice Kettle. This event was a significant gathering of artists, cultural leaders, and key stakeholders, where discussions centered on the future of artistic spaces in Reading and the transformational potential of The Recentre. A key theme of the discussion was how The Recentre embodies the principles of Zero Point Energy—a concept that highlights the presence of residual energy even in absolute stillness, mirroring the potential for transformation, renewal, and creative evolution within artistic spaces. The event highlighted the urgent need for cultural spaces and the role that The Recentre will play in fostering artistic expression, community engagement, and international collaboration.
The Vision for The Recentre Site
The Recentre is more than a venue; it is a visionary project redefining the intersection of culture, hospitality, and artistic innovation. As both a boutique hotel and a premier art exhibition space, The Recentre is designed to offer an immersive experience where creativity and comfort seamlessly coexist. This unique transformation—repurposing a historic prison into a dynamic hub for contemporary art and global collaboration—establishes The Recentre as a new space for artistic exchange and cultural engagement.
At its core, The Recentre embodies the idea of transformation. It provides a sanctuary for artists, curators, and creative minds to connect, exhibit, and inspire. Its multifunctional spaces cater to a diverse audience, from international artists seeking a residency to cultural enthusiasts exploring groundbreaking exhibitions. By blending art with hospitality, The Recentre offers an unparalleled opportunity for visitors to engage with artistic expression in an environment that encourages reflection, interaction, and creativity.
This ambitious initiative aspires to cultivate a thriving artistic ecosystem, where exhibitions, artist residencies, and interdisciplinary collaborations foster a culture of continuous innovation. The Recentre is not just a destination; it is a movement—one that invites the world to experience the boundless potential of human creativity within a space that honours both history and the future.
Reading Gaol in the 19th century." (Source: Enemies of the State Blog, University of Reading, Retrieved from http://blogs.reading.ac.uk/enemies-of-the-state/2013/04/10/reading-gaol-a-very-short-history/
The Philosophy Behind The Recentre
Ziran’s guiding principle, Zero Point Energy, illustrates the presence of residual energy even in absolute stillness. In parallel, human consciousness is constantly active, producing thoughts that shape desires and actions. However, many of these thoughts are transient, much like the fleeting emergence and disappearance of virtual particles in quantum physics. The significance of stillness lies in its ability to restore energy, foster awareness, and unlock human potential.
The Recentre is a physical manifestation of this philosophy. Once known as The Centre, a prison, it has been reborn into a hotel and art exhibition space. This transformation symbolises the journey from confinement to freedom—an embodiment of humanity’s ability to renew, create, and find balance. It aligns with the broader mission of The Recentre, which aspires to cultivate a "New World" centered on transformation and equilibrium.
The Recentre’s Role in Reading’s Cultural Landscape
Steve Woodford (left) showcases artworks.
During the event on 29 January, many speakers emphasised Reading’s long-standing shortage of dedicated spaces for artistic expression. Steve Woodford, former managing director of Haslams Estate Agents, highlighted this issue:
“One of the biggest challenges Reading has had over the last 40 or 50 years is the lack of cultural and exhibition space. While there is fantastic art, there simply isn’t enough space to showcase it. The Recentre, with its historic significance and prime location, will be a valuable asset to the town, providing much-needed exhibition space and fostering cultural growth.”
Adele Barnett-Ward, Lead Member for Leisure and Culture on Reading Borough Council, echoed these sentiments:
“Artists need space to breathe, and we, as a town, need spaces to experience art. While digital mediums capture moments, contemporary art provides an emotional and immersive experience. The Recentre will play a vital role in preserving and fostering these artistic expressions.”
Adele Barnett-Ward discusses the significance of cultural spaces during the event.
Beyond providing exhibition space, it serves as a bridge between history, artistic innovation, and the community. This transformation also fosters deeper public engagement with art, ensuring artistic expression remains accessible to all.
A Hub for Artists and Community Engagement
Suzanne Stallard emphasizes the need for artistic spaces and collaboration in Reading.
The event also featured discussions on how The Recentre could serve as a thriving ecosystem for artists. Suzanne Stallard, founder of Jelly, an arts organisation in Reading, emphasised the importance of artist residencies, community workshops, and international collaborations:
“The Recentre provides a much-needed space for artists to come together, showcase their work, and collaborate on projects. Its central location and cultural significance will make it an inspirational hub for both local and international artists. By working together, we can create a dynamic and inclusive cultural identity for Reading.”
Caroline Streatfield explores her artwork and The Recentre’s role in supporting artists.
Caroline Streatfield, a local artist and curator, also shared her perspective:
“I think it’s really important for Reading to have an art scene. Many local artists struggle to find space to create and exhibit their work. The Recentre could be an essential venue for established artists and emerging talents who need a space to develop their craft. It would be fantastic to have international artists visiting, staying at the hotel, and sharing their experiences with local artists. This type of cultural exchange fosters growth and inspires the next generation of creatives.”
Caroline also emphasised the potential for The Recentre to support young artists and students:
“Art can be a powerful tool for young people who might not excel in traditional academic subjects. A space like The Recentre could offer them opportunities to express themselves, engage with professionals, and build a future in the creative industries.”
The Recentre is not just a gallery—it is a platform for creative exchange, artistic growth, and community participation. Its diverse spaces will allow artists to engage with audiences beyond the confines of traditional galleries, fostering a deeper appreciation for the arts.
Looking Ahead: A Vision for Transformation
The Recentre shares a vision of balance and transformation, mirroring the principles of Zero Point Energy. Even in moments of stillness, immense power resides within. By embracing this philosophy, The Recentre represents human creativity's limitless potential.
As it prepares to open its doors, The Recentre stands as a beacon of possibility. It will provide artists with the space to thrive, the community with an enriched cultural landscape, and Reading with a renewed identity as a hub for artistic innovation. More than just a physical space, The Recentre symbolises the power of transformation—turning limitation into creation, stillness into energy, and history into the foundation of a new future.
The journey of The Recentre is just beginning, but its impact will resonate far beyond its walls. By fostering artistic expression and cultural exchange, it will play a crucial role in shaping a more vibrant, creative, and balanced world.