
The Sustainable Conservation Trust is delighted to host acclaimed multimedia artist Thomas Buckley for a 2025 residency at the Pay Office in Portsmouth Historic Dockyard. Buckley, known for blending cutting-edge technologies with deeply human stories, brings his innovative project, PLAY OFFICE, to our historic studio space. This venture marks an exciting chapter in SCT’s mission to nurture creativity and community through heritage-inspired art.

The official launch of PLAY OFFICE was a resounding success. Attended by MP Stephen Morgan and Council Leader Steve Pitt, the event brought together artists, supporters, and local creatives for an evening of exploration and collaboration. Guests immersed themselves in tech demonstrations, experimented with screenprinting guided by ZooPoo, and celebrated with exceptional drinks provided by Society of Cocktails. The turnout reflected Portsmouth’s thriving creative and heritage communities and set the tone for the transformative work ahead.

PLAY OFFICE is more than a studio—it’s an incubation hub where local and international artists can experiment with emerging technologies such as AR, VR, and projection. Through mentorship, free studio access, and collaborative opportunities, the initiative aims to foster innovative placemaking projects rooted in Portsmouth’s rich heritage. By connecting human stories with digital tools, PLAY OFFICE seeks to empower creatives to develop future-focused practices while encouraging international collaboration and skill-sharing.

Thomas, an alumnus of the Royal Shakespeare Company and an associate artist at Portsmouth Guildhall, is at the forefront of this endeavor. With a body of work described as inspiring and deeply empathetic, Buckley’s leadership promises to shape PLAY OFFICE into a cornerstone of artistic development and technological exploration.
For more on PLAY OFFICE, its mission, and opportunities, visit play-office.com. To discover Thomas Buckley’s portfolio and artistic vision, explore thomas-buckley.com.
Stay tuned as SCT and PLAY OFFICE redefine the intersection of art, heritage, and innovation, one project at a time.