An iconic former department store on the Isle of Wight has reopened its doors - but this time, as a community arts centre.

Formerly Elizabeth Packs, the Ryde building is now known as Department and run by Shademakers UK, with Stitch Department, Horsebox Theatre and Ryde Arts all having spaces at the site.

Architecturally, the building retains many of the department store's original features and ensures that the building's history is retained in its new life.

Scroll through our gallery of photos above

Read more:

Simon Cadle, architect for the project, said: "There's a creative like-mindedness, with us as architects and Shademakers.

"On the Island, we want to create a situation where the creative bubble inflates."

One of Simon's core ideas for the building was its use as a walkthrough between Cross Street and the car park behind George Street, for the public, and the power that has to bring the street into the building and see what it has to offer.

The building was unveiled by Cllr Richard May, mayor of Ryde, and Paul Mclaren, artistic director of Shademakers UK.

Paul said: "There's always been things manufactured here, and we belong to that. We're not here to take anything, we're here to give."

Amber Rose, a bridal seamstress, will lead workshops and sessions at Stitch Department in a dedicated space on the first floor of the building.

She said: "We've got a dedicated space to learn sewing, heritage skills and mending, and we're able to keep manufacturing in the building.

"It's so important for the wellbeing element of craft."

Amber has plans to start a "repair cafe", teaching people to mend their clothes. 

The £2.4 million project was funded primarily through a government grant via Arts Council England, as well as Historic England and the National Lottery Heritage Fund.

Phil Gibby, south west director for Arts Council England said: "The most important thing about this project is that it's been led all the way by artists.

"The Isle of Wight has less cultural infrastructure than other places, and we wanted to do something."

Department will show plays, host quizzes and workshops, and events for children - a full what's on guide is available via their website.

From Tuesday, July 1, the National Poo Museum will be in Department for the summer season.

Tickets are available soon.

Joe Plumb, programming director at Department, said: "It's been a long time coming, and we're excited to open the doors and get people in.

"We want people to stumble across art, and break down all the barriers to see art.

"Every time you go into the space, it's unexpected."