State of Independents

Take it as red: The Red Door Gallery takes on many roles, including shop, gallery and art boutique.

Opening doors to shoppers and artists alike  – Article in The Evening News 12/03/2015

It’s a gallery, a shop and an art boutique.  It sells everything from bags to brooches, cards to cushions, and prints to pom-pom hats.  And it helps to support emerging young artists to bridge the gap between creativity and commercial success.

The Red Door Gallery in Victoria Street fulfils many roles but for the shopper in search of a gift, a piece of art or a unique hand crafted product, prices range from a few quid to more than £100.  There are gifts for men, women and children, jewellery, homewares, bags, accessories and gift vouchers.

After 12 years in buisness it is still thriving, offering a constantly fresh range of pieces at reasonable prices, despite the demise of some other small retailers during the recession.

Creative Manager, Nicky Brooks said:  “We’re in a good, central location.  Our customers are less defined by demographic and more by attitude.  Young, old, tourinsts, local – they just appreciate the aesthetics and the individuality of an item made by a talented, local artist, not to mention the sense of humour and quirkiness of what we sell.”

“We make a point of attending as many degree shows at art schools and colleges around Scotland but we also work with people who have no qualifications but great talent.”

“Many artists have to find another job to pay the bils while they develop their creativity.  By making one line of items for us, that can become their “second” job.  And our new online shop gives them wide exposure”.

The gallery also hosts occasional exhibitions by students of fine art, illustration or graphic design.

Coming up this Month : Edinburgh College of Art. 3rd Year  Student Exhibition “Look What I Saw In Edinburgh” opeing March 25, more information on the Red Door Gallery Blog soon!

Huge thanks to Helen Martin for writing this ” State of Independents ” piece, just in time for Mother’s day!  If you are looking for gift ideas, have a peep here.

 

State of Independents