The William Lamb Studio, which closed after the loss of vital funds, could reopen to visitors if councillors rubber-stamp a report going before them this week.
Support for the studio from Angus Council’s arms-length management body Angus Alive and an application to the common good fund also failed.
The closure prompted a barrage of criticism, as people took to social media to vent their anger at the unexpected turn of events.
Art History professor John Morrison from Aberdeen University slammed the move at the time stating: “There seems to be a lack of understanding of the importance of the studio, the collection, and of William Lamb himself, who was a major player.
“The reality is that art can be an economic driver.”
However, after months of wrangling, a compromise solution has been proposed that would see the Friends of William Lamb Studio responsible for opening and closing the venue, as well as organising all events at the internationally recognised studio.
Angus Alive will continue to care for and manage the collection of William Lamb, with the property aspects being managed by the council’s Infrastructure team.
Chair of the Friends of William Lamb Studio Norman Atkinson welcomed the report.
He said: “I am delighted, and this is a very positive report, and the officers have been in great in what has been a very tricky situation.
“I welcome the fact that the council and Angus Alive have accepted responsibility for the collection, and the fact that we are not responsible for the maintenance of the building.
“Group members have received training from Angus Alive, and we can cascade this training down to other members.
“There are now 140 members of the Friends of William Lamb Studio, and we are raring to go.”
Mr Atkinson also revealed that the delayed 40th anniversary party for the group would now be going ahead, with an afternoon tea party to be held on Friday October 19 in the town.
Montrose and District independent councillor Tommy Stewart gave his backing to the move.
He said: “While it may be that there has been some miscommunication among the parties concerned in this, I am glad that the situation may finally be resolved, and I look forward to visiting the studio when it re-opens.”
