Wick’s new art gallery provides opportunities for local talent
Bucking the trend of empty and unsightly shops in the centre of Wick, a bright new art gallery has opened on High Street.
The Cobblestones Gallery at 106 High Street has added some well-needed freshness to Wick and was opened up at the end of September by owner Sonya Paul.
“I’ve been an artist for years and worked at Screwfix before this,” said Sonya.
“When I saw this place I asked the owner if he’d consider renting it out as an art gallery. Originally, it was just going to be a studio and art gallery for myself but several people approached me and asked if I would consider allowing other artists to put something in.”
She said she was uncertain how to go about involving other artists but took the model from popup shops where spaces are rented out for a week or a month. Sonya now rents out wall and shelf space to local artists and crafters and has a wide array of talent on show in the bespoke gallery.
The website for Cobblestones Gallery shows some of the latest work on show and can be found at: www.thecobblestonesgallery.co.uk
There are numerous works by local talent such as Ewa Allan and Sheelagh Paterson along with paintings and drawings by Sonya. Some of her detailed pencil drawings of Caithness scenes can be bought for as little as £20. There is also a diverse range of smaller crafting work and jewellery on the shelfing.
Sonya said that wall and shelf spaces are fully booked for this month and the December ones were quickly filling up.
The interior design is well suited to a Highland art gallery with images of golden stags and tartan carpeting making for a cosy and inviting space. “I’m just an artist who likes things dark and moody. My husband Phil put up the wallpaper and painted the ceiling.”
If you visit Cobblestones Gallery you may find that the owner is whiling away her time constructively. “I’m sitting here drawing a pheasant picture at the moment so it’s an active studio as well,” added Sonya.
Updates and/or showcases are posted every day except Sunday on the gallery’s Facebook page at: Facebook.com/thecobblestonesgallery
Anyone interested in more information about buying works or having their art featured at Cobblestones Gallery can also email: info@thecobblestonesgallery.co.uk