Heart Gallery

An amazing commission for a special Birthday

2011-04-16T12:02:00.000-07:00

Recently I worked very closely with a lovely customer, Justine, and a talented jewellery maker, Emma Gale, to design jewellery for Justine's 40th Birthday.

Coming up with the perfect necklace and bracelet to compliment a bespoke dress Justine had designed herself and was having made by Irene Calverley took time and thought, but once I knew which of the many talented UK makers in Heart Gallery to use, Emma made the rest of the process flow with ease.

After initially meeting Justine we realised that most of the detail for the necklace had to be down her back as the dress had been designed to drape really low. What we also wanted to do was make the necklace multi-functional so that Justine could wear it again and again even when she wasn't wearing her fantastic frock!

Emma managed to make the necklace so that Justine wore the whole necklace on her special evening but it broke down into 2 single necklaces too, giving her 3 variations to wear - genius!

After Justine had collected the necklace she quickly realised she wanted a bracelet to match and with very short notice Emma made the perfect little bracelet for Justine to complete her look .... and doesn't it all look amazing?

Emma uses 18ct yellow gold, antique glass beads and pearls then knits her flowers with kid mohair; her pieces are exquisite and are heirlooms of the future. This is a close up of Emma's kid mohair flowers on 18ct gold chain, they look so delicate but they are simply stunning and so perfectly designed and crafted.

I caught up with Justine after her birthday weekend and this is what she had to say:

"Thank you so much Alison for pulling everything together so quickly and suggesting Emma. As you can see the vintage style is perfect with the dress. It helped that you and the team at Heart Gallery were as excited as me about the whole choosing a jeweller and pulling together the look. Heart was my fave shop before but it's now my favourite place to recommend to friends looking for something special where the service is so personal and outstanding. I felt fantastic as the look had come together and therefore that enhanced an amazing night! Thanks so much, see you soon Jus xx"

Thanks to Emma Gale for interpreting our ideas perfectly and to Justine for sending stunning photographs to use in this blog.

Keys to your Heart

2011-02-13T01:54:00.000-08:00

Be the perfect valentine......give your lover the keys to your heart this Valentines day.

The ultimate gift for a loved one. Give something a little more personal with these beautiful porcelain keys by Shan Valla at Heart Gallery.

Christmas at Heart

2010-12-14T00:01:00.000-08:00

Well friends, it's been a while since I blogged for various reasons but the weather we have all had hasn't really helped matters has it? It looks so pretty when it first falls and covers the world but after a short while the picture fades as reality kicks in. Life as we know it seems to stop as people can't get to or from work, children are sent home from schools, public transport ceases and the media tells us all to stay at home!

It's at times like these that we really must, more than ever, support our small local independents to keep them in business providing a service to the community we live in. I ordered the Heart Gallery Christmas Tree from Bob at William Holt, Greengrocer, Bridge Gate, Hebden Bridge. Two days later it arrived and not only was Bob prompt at getting the tree delivered round to me, he and a colleague walked round to Market Street with it, made sure it was secure and straight for me and then put the lights on it too as I couldn't reach to the top of it myself!

It's this type of Customer Service offered by the independents of Hebden Bridge that make a great town greater.... and doesn't it look all Christmassy?

Hebden Bridge has recently won the title of 'Best Town in Britain 2011' and we really do deserve this award.

The team behind the Totally Locally campaign in Calderdale have worked tirelessly to get their message across since launching and only last week won another award, this time for 'Outstanding Response to the Economic Downturn'. Invest in your town - invest in your future is their tag line and the people of Hebden Bridge do just that. As someone who has a business in the town I appreciate how important it is to support other businesses and try where ever possible to shop totally locally.

This beautiful Christmas Card by talented local artist and illustrator Julia Ogden is available at Heart Gallery. Julia has also painted a small canvas of Two Turtle Doves which is hanging proudly in Heart Gallery.

This is part of the 12 days of Christmas trail around Hebden Bridge kindly organised by The Hebden Bridge Bookshop. This new family-run, independent bookshop opened its doors in June 2010 to pursue and share their passion for literature with the local book-reading community. Sadly 2 weeks ago Gillian and Ross were dealt a devastating blow when the flat above their shop flooded through their ceiling ruining more than three quarters of their stock and their fixtures and fittings.

With friends and family rallying round they should thankfully be open again for business this weekend so call in and show your support. This time of year is crucial for small businesses so we all rely on you, our loyal customers, to spread the word on how great Hebden Bridge is for shopping .... see you soon and don't forget it is Late Night Shopping on Market Street every Thursday in December, shop late until eight and bring Market Street alive after five!

So, as silly season fast approaches I hope you are all prepared and ready for Christmas and if you have a few pressies still to wrap this beautiful double-sided Robin paper is perfect!

Late Night Shopping at Heart Gallery, Hebden Bridge

2010-11-19T12:42:00.000-08:00

Christmas Cards at Heart Gallery

2010-11-09T07:21:00.000-08:00

Last year, and the year before, and the year before, and even the year before that I noticed that people weren't really inclined to part with much money when it came to Christmas cards. In my opinion this is a real shame as I always try to seek out something different for my close friends and family. The cheap boxed sets which are mass produced don't really offer anything unique or different ... just convenience! Stick it in the trolley with your weekly shop and they're ready to write and post!

There are so many lovely cards out there by smaller companies or individual artists trying to carve a niche in the stationery industry and here are just a few that Heart Gallery is stocking this year, I hope you like them:

My favourite I think is still Nigel Hillier's award winning Hebden At Dusk, and he's had it printed as a good size card in case you want to frame it.

I also love the Rob Ryan cut-out card and I know a lot of you out there do too as there aren't many left now, so be quick if this is your card of choice this year!

Julia Brook's reindeer cards all have quirky captions on them.

I love the Christmas pud

and also this one! I think my thoughts would be 'far from festive' too!

Rachael Taylor's textiles were introduced to Heart Gallery quite recently and her pinny's, oven gloves and tea towels are selling really well. Here are 2 of her card designs you can choose from:

Hazel Spatschek's fabulous red robin cards are really cute too, the red breast is stitched on embossed foil so it's really shiny:

Heart Gallery sells Clare Caulfield's original pen and ink city work as well as limited edition prints and canvases and this year there are 3 of her Christmas cards to choose from. Snow falling on West 34th is one of my favourites and always makes me want to be there!

This is her Winter Wonderland

and I know there are a few dachshund lovers out there who would just love this card of Clare's!

So, just a little blog about Christmas cards folks to get you in the mood, hope you enjoyed it and see you soon ❤

Crafts For Christmas at Hardcastle Crags

2010-11-03T14:37:00.000-07:00

The National Trust at Hardcastle Crags, Hebden Bridge are holding their first ever Craft Fair this Firday and Saturday 5th and 6th of November, Free entry 11am - 3.30pm.

Take a short walk to Gibson Mill and meet talented local designers and makers to choose something gorgeous for a treat or present for someone special. Please bring cash as there are no credit card facilities.

Buy unique Christmas Cards and wrapping paper by Rachael Taylor, a surface pattern designer living in Leeds.

Treat yourself to some sustainable, low-impact, eco-friendly knitwear by Todmorden based company Makepiece.

Think about lighting up your Christmas Dinner table using these contemporary candlesticks from Heart Gallery.

If pearls are your thing then this bracelet will be a perfect addition to your jewellery box.

How about a leather satchel by super talented local leather worker Catherine Edwards?

You will also find stunning felt corsages by Gail Myerscough and velvet and voile badges by Anne Crowther.

And of course, there will also be the fantastic cards by Award Winning Local Photographer Nigel Hillier available too!

So folks, guess we shall be seeing you real soon at Gibson Mill, Hardcastle Crags, Hebden Bridge!

GORGEOUS GIFTS AT HEART

2010-10-15T14:22:00.000-07:00

Yes, it really is nearly that time of the year again my friends - where does time go?

Planning for this exhibition started in January 2010 which might seem mad to some but I have to work about 10 months in advance to book new work in from makers. The small designer/makers Heart Gallery chooses to showcase throughout the year have to be able to timetable their work schedules in advance too.

It is always an incredible selection journey choosing pieces handmade by the cream of British talent ... here is a sneaky peak of what you will be able to buy at Heart Gallery already or coming soon: 

 Porcelain t-light holders by Stef Storey

Fairytale silver jewellery by Xuella Arnold

Oak Jewellery box by Frances Smith

Silk/cashmere scarves by Alison Dupernex

Pen and ink originals and prints by Clare Caulfield

Award winning photography of the Hebden Bridge area by Nigel Hillier

Quirky silver jewellery by Helen Noakes

Rob Ryan Christmas cards and boxed notelet sets

Jan Constantine embroidered cushions

Award winning kitchen/dining products from Joseph Joseph

Luxurious silk scarves by Taisir Gibreel

Delicate little t-light holders by Cerys Boyle

I hope that's a little taster of what's in store for you in the run up to Christmas and don't forget that Heart Gallery is now offering the Arts Council’s Own Art scheme which     is designed to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works     of art and craft including paintings, photography, sculpture, glassware and jewellery. 

Simply choose the pieces you like, give us about 15 minutes of your time and you could be taking them all home on this great scheme - pick up an Own Art leaflet next time you visit Heart Gallery or call in for a chat.

Own Art to take home

Buy art at the Heart Gallery on interest free credit*

The Arts Council’s Own Art scheme is designed to make it easy and affordable for everyone to buy contemporary works of art and craft including paintings, photography, sculpture, glassware and jewellery. You can borrow from as little as £100 up to £2000, and pay back the loan in 10 monthly instalments - interest free.  

Arts Council England has established the Own Art scheme for the following reasons:

to encourage new buyers and audiences for the visual arts
to develop the visual arts economy by encouraging an increase in the sale of work by contemporary artists
to support a breadth of practice from traditional to the innovative, by artists at all stages of their career.

The visual arts include craft, printmaking, glassware, painting, sculpture, installation, artists' film and video, media arts, architecture, live art and photography.

*Typical 0% APR

*Offer subject to age and status. Terms and conditions apply.

Baby Hair Ring Commission

2010-09-26T13:20:00.000-07:00

This is a really short little blog for you which I have wanted to post for nearly a month but it is so personal to my customer I had to get permission first.

Towards the end of summer my customer came to see me about possibly incorporating some baby hair into a ring for his wife. I knew immediately the jeweller I wanted to use for this interesting commission as her work is incredible.

Helen's silver work previously at Heart Gallery has included this Easy Tiger necklace. Helen sets miniature models in resin and incorporates them in handcrafted silver jewellery.

Helen spends hours dreaming up little resin scenarios to preserve these highly detailed finely crafted figures in desirable and wearable handcrafted jewellery pieces. The simplicity of the designs belies the hours needed to create the collection but to see a piece come to life at the final resin polish is a revelation every time!

It was for this reason I chose Helen to do this amazing but extremely sensitive commission. My customer and his wife had unfortunately lost their daughter and they had cut some of her hair and taped it into a memory book. He thought that trying to place some of this hair into a piece of jewellery for his wife to wear would be a good way to preserve their daughter's hair should anything ever happen to the memory book. So he secretly removed the very small lock of baby hair from their memory book to bring in to me, a ring of his wife's to take a size from and an idea of how he wanted the finished piece to look and so the design process began.

Helen and I were under pressure as there was a timescale to finish it in and he didn't want all the hair set in resin so that he could put some back in their memory book. I think this was an important thing to do so that the hair could still be touched should they feel the need to.

Helen finished it with only 5 days to spare before my customer was doing a charity bike ride over to Paris. His wife was then flying out to meet him on their Wedding Anniversary where he was going to take her up the Eiffel Tower and present her with the ring! When he came to Heart Gallery to collect it there were hugs and tears all round and I felt so proud that he had trusted myself and Helen to take his thoughts and ideas and turn them into a reality.

What isn't visible here is that inscribed on the inside rim of the silver, with the hair, is their daughter's name. The baby hair and Hannah May are one, encapsulated together to be worn by mummy.

What is also really lovely about this ring is that no-one looking at it knows that it contains baby hair; this is something personal to my customers and they alone can choose to tell the viewer or not.

My customer and his wife will soon be back from their holiday in France so I am looking forward to meeting them together at Heart Gallery when she feels the time is right to show me.

I want to thank my customer from the bottom of my heart for allowing me to share this story with you.

The picture below is another recent commission Helen completed for customers that I want to share with you proving that romance is not dead! Wedding rings - the inlaid resin has fragments of sea glass, sand, shells and stones from the beach that they first met on...

Sizzling September at Heart Gallery

2010-09-18T13:59:00.000-07:00

Now that the summer holidays are over and we all try to get back into a routine, I thought it was time for an update.

September deliveries are arriving weekly as a little drip feed of sizzling goodies in the run up to Christmas.

The first to be delivered this week is two sizes of notebook by Rob Ryan, A5 and A6.

'I Am The Notebook of ...'

A very pretty plain notebook to write and draw the most wonderful of things. I've already treated myself to one to keep at the side of my bed for doodles and both sizes have been popular so I have had to place another order already - they arrived yesterday!

On their way soon are more Rob Ryan products including this fabulous 'PLEASE SMELL US' vase

and 'TOGETHER' mugs

and 'LISTEN TO THE WORLD' mug.

My lovely, thoughtful hubby knew that I was eagerly awaiting Rob Ryan's licensed products for Wild 'n' Wolf at Heart Gallery and so kindly, and secretly, bought me this wall decal for our bathroom. It is stunning and just perfect for the wall under our 'LIFE IS BEAUTIFUL' sign.

Thank you Bart ❤

Please bookmark this blog as it is getting regularly updated and the MEET THE MAKER pages are proving really popular. The main Heart Gallery website is going to be updated to include an on-line shop but in the meantime this blog is the best way to keep in touch.

See you in Heart Gallery soon ❤

Remnants - Su Blackwell

2010-09-11T14:05:00.000-07:00

Had to do a quick blog about this exhibition I went to see in Haworth yesterday. I wasn't allowed to take any photographs whilst there but this little blog will whet your appetite and make you want to visit The Brontë Parsonage Museum to see more!

I was lucky enough to work with Su at The Yorkshire Craft Centre a few years ago now when she did a stunning installation for us entitled 'While You Were Sleeping'.

When I heard she was working with The Brontë Parsonage Museum to create new work in response to the Brontës and the museum collection to create a series of site specific installations, on display throughout the historic rooms of the house, I was overjoyed that this would be just over the hill from Hebden Bridge!

Su Blackwell often works within the realm of folklore and fairytales, and Remnants responds to Wuthering Heights as well as the themes of childhood, imagination and storytelling. The series of delicate interventions suggest the Brontës’ imaginary worlds and hint at a spirit world still present. Displayed amongst original artefacts, the pieces also draw connections with the Brontës’ use of paper as a precious material.

Remnants takes place as part of the museum’s contemporary arts programme which encourages new ways of looking at the museum collection and at contemporary art, and celebrates the connections between creativity past and present.

I urge you to visit whilst you can, the exhibition runs until 28 November 2010 so you have plenty of time to put it in your diary - you will not be disappointed.

Own Art at Heart Gallery

2010-08-08T09:06:00.000-07:00

Own Art

I still don't think that customers fully understand how the Own Art Scheme works so here's some info for you all. Almost everything at Heart Gallery is covered by this scheme and you can buy from different makers or just your favourite one.

Ceramics by Rowena Gilbert

Porcelain T light holders by Mandy Livesley

Just bring 2 forms of ID with you when you come to shop, the process is quick and easy and a decision is made there and then.

Limited Edition prints and original pen and inks by Clare Caulfield

Own Art certainly comes in handy at Christmas as you can group lots of beautiful pieces together and get all your pressies under one roof ... we even gift wrap everything for you!

Silver and freshwater pearl Lily collection by local jeweller Amanda Cox

Silver and 22ct gold plate seed pod collection by Claire Troughton

Photographs of Hebden Bridge by award winning local photographer Nigel Hillier

Own Art

Why not buy several items and spread the cost with an interest* free loan, and you can take the items away on the day.

You can borrow up to £2000 or as little as £100, and pay back the loan in 10 monthly installments.

*Typical 0% APR

Summer Show

2010-06-29T08:33:00.000-07:00

Heart Gallery's photography exhibition YORKSHIRE - IN ALL ITS GLORY is now well under way and has been so fantastically supported by locals and visitors alike, thank you.

Mind you, I can't say I am not surprised! Eight local photographers and some amazing pieces from them and a variety of styles all under one roof! 

 This photo, HORSE, OLD TOWN, won Nigel Hillier an award last year and it was the first to sell at Heart Gallery. We have also got the shot he took last year of Hebden Bridge that also won an award and was printed out as Christmas cards for Heart Gallery - selling out week after week!

If you haven't been down to Heart Gallery yet then the exhibition runs until 01 August so you have plenty of time left.

We are also now running the Summer Show which is showcasing jewellery, ceramics and glass from newly graduated designers/makers and small ranges from makers not previously exhibited at Heart Gallery. 

Sitting in amongst the new pieces are some contributions from a few of previous Heart Gallery favourites working in wire, metal and enamel:

So a stunning selection of pieces for the Summer Show and YORKSHIRE - IN ALL ITS GLORY photography working together in harmony - see you soon xXx

Joyful June

2010-06-08T11:56:00.000-07:00

Father's Day will be upon us soon so I am sending some ideas for you to think about ... after all Dad's are worth it, we wouldn't be here without them!

Last year I bought my Dad a bespoke leather wallet from Gregg McDonald which Dad said he would 'keep for best' - I told him not to be stupid as it was bought to be used! So he has used it every day and 12 months later it still looks brand new!

Gregg McDonald is Heart Gallery's talented leather goods maker working with only the finest British hides.

Gregg is a graduate of the prestigious Cordwainers College in London. He has worked as a footwear designer and likes to see the complete design process from initial idea to finished product.

All items are hand cut, machine stitched and hand finished at his workshop in Heart Gallery.The workshop is open to the public and he welcomes commissions for personalised
wallets.

So, this year I cannot buy Dad another wallet ... his Gregg McDonald one is still going strong!

Heart Gallery has lots of other lovely things to choose from that Dad will love including these fab Pantone mugs and Pantone notebooks in a great choice of colours and sizes.

This mug is one of my favourites as it goes perfectly in my chocolate and lime kitchen!

Dad might also like something from Dan Black

& Martin Blum.

This design duo is driven by the opportunity to give each design its own unique character and soul.

James the Bookend!

Their brief is to create functional products that will charm and entertain.

Loo Read!

They are passionate about design and realise that a true black + blum product is always a joint input of Dan and Martin’s personalities. Hopefully you will get as much enjoyment from black + blum products as they get from designing them and Heart Gallery gets from stocking them.

Flow!

I think this wine rack by Black + Blum might be just the thing for Dad this year, or he might quite like this Desk Phone or Diner Phone.

I remember the Trim Phones but ours was not such a lovely bright colour; we had a beige one!

The lime green one is perfect again for my chocolate and lime kitchen! These phones actually make you sit down and have a proper conversation too as you can't do the washing up at the same time like you can with the modern mobile home phone!

I'm not sure my Dad needs a new watch but if he did this new Arne Jacobsen watch would be just the one I would choose. The Arne Jacobsen wrist watches are not only an elegant re-interpretation of Danish design history, they are also the herald of a brand-new generation of Arne Jacobsen’s ideas.

Following on from the successful launch of Arne Jacobsen Wall Clocks – Banker’s, Roman and City Hall – Rosendahl is now introducing these design icons as wrist watches. The collection has been created in accordance with the original strokes of the master, as scaled-down versions of the wall clocks. Each Arne Jacobsen wrist watch comes in three sizes and bears the same name as the original wall clock.

Of course, if I was choosing for myself from Heart Gallery's extensive range of Danish Design, Rosendahl and Issey Miyake then this would be my prefered watch:

But I am not shopping for me this time, I am shopping for Dad to celebrate the paternal bond and his influence on me and my life. Dad, I love you xXx

Happy shopping everyone!

Ceramic showcase at Heart Gallery

2010-04-30T12:44:00.000-07:00

Well, where has April gone then?? I haven't blogged here since March and don't really know why so I shall rectify this with a ceramic showcase for you to feast your eyes on ....

Clare Mahoney is an artist who specialises in merging ceramics and printmaking. The inspiration for her work comes from nature, striving to interpret the short-lived beauty and fragility of nature, capturing the image before it fades.

The exploration of colour, pattern and texture is beautifully demonstrated in her handmade ceramics which focus on nature, abstracted imagery and the passage of time. By the process of drawing; mono print and collage she creates wall hung and sculptural ceramics that engage the viewer in a visual journey.

Heart Gallery had a box of Clare's beautiful pieces delivered today and it was like Christmas unwrapping her pieces from inside their packaging ... what a delight hidden inside!

Another long awaited delivery this week was from Jan Constantine. Jan's embroidered cushions have long been admired here ... take a look ...

... but now she has developed a range of china for the kitchen to compliment her style and it arrived Wednesday at Heart Gallery.

Wow ... we couldn't wait for these to arrive and we have not been disappointed so know you won't be either!

Sarah McDade is one of our local ceramicists and has been making ceramic heads and figures for over 20 years, establishing a reputation for high quality work.

Sarah is inspired by the creative possibilities when building the human form in clay. Her ideas are developed from observation, drawings, sketches and photographs.

Commissions welcome.

Another of our favourite local ceramicists is Sue Candy. Sue produces individual and contemporary tableware, hand built from porcelain clay slabs and constructed as delicate boxes ...

Sue is currently working on our new order which will arrive at the beginning of next month and includes her new wall pieces.

New deliveries now in stock at Heart Gallery so I hope you have enjoyed this little ceramic showcase and before I go .... a sneaky peak at the new Pantone range arriving at Heart Gallery early May! These are certain to be really popular, as I have had several enquiries already, so make sure you come along to Heart Gallery early to have your pick of colours ... enjoy - I have my little eye on the lime green! xXx

Alice in Wonderland arrives at Heart Gallery

2010-03-27T13:13:00.000-07:00

To celebrate the newly released Alice in Wonderland film, one of Heart Gallery's resident artists Heather Wilson has created some fantasy hats especially for the occasion. The Red Queen Hat, has a suitably majestic 18" tall feather, playing cards, red roses, and, of course, glittery hearts!

She has also made a Mad Hatter Hat - which has a miniature tea party, complete with sandwiches and cakes, a real pocket watch, a bottle with the "Drink Me" label - all set on a grassy mini top hat.

Mad Hatter? Indeed she is.

To see these wonderful creations, please do visit Heather's studio in Heart Gallery.

If you would like to make an appointment, please phone: 07841 400 542, or vist her website www.hwilsonart.com

Totally Locally in Hebden Bridge

2010-03-02T00:35:00.000-08:00

Totally Locally is all about Me, You, Him & Her. It’s about shopping in your street, your town, your district. It’s about jobs & community, it’s about investing today for a prosperous tomorrow, it’s about making this place shine like a diamond.

If every adult in Calderdale spent just £5 per week extra in our local shops & businesses it would mean an extra £40 million a year going into our local economy!

Totally Locally Calderdale has just launched its Fiver Fest and Heart Gallery is happy to be involved with this great campaign to encourage everyone to shop locally and avoid the concrete jungles. This is the link to take you to the Totally Locally pages to view all the wonderful offers and ideas independent shop owners have come up with for the Fiver Fest Fortnight.

http://www.totally-locally.co.uk/news.aspx?m=2&y=2010

We hope to see you soon … shopping locally and enjoying the experience xXx

'I DO' Wedding Show, Heart Gallery, Valentines Day

2010-02-01T09:14:00.000-08:00

Heart Gallery is holding a Wedding Exhibition on Valentines’ Day, 12pm – 5pm. So if you are celebrating the union of love in 2010 then you need to come down to Hebden Bridge to see what Heart Gallery can offer you and your party for your special day. Less than two weeks to go so it's all getting really exciting as the new work begins to arrive.

Meet Sarah Mason, a local photographer with a sensitive and individual approach to your wedding or civil partnership and the ability to capture those special moments. Sarah will be at Heart Gallery to chat with you about your requirements and your plans to give you the photo’s you want. Sarah’s style is fresh, contemporary and natural and she likes to create a rapport with her client(s) and develop ideas prior to your BIG day. Sarah believes that the photographer shouldn’t take over your SPECIAL day so her approach is friendly yet discreet!

Sarah Jenkins’ fabulous wedding cakes are stunning; individually designed to meet your requirements with style and attention to detail. For fashion conscious cakes for your BIG day then Sarah is the person you need to speak with. Sarah will be at Heart Gallery 14th February and inspiration is the key … from your invitation, your favourite flower, piece of jewellery, special place or perhaps a pattern from a vintage piece of china, Sarah can translate this into a scrumptious cake for your SPECIAL day using the best fresh ingredients including organic free-range eggs and Fair Trade chocolate.

Heart Gallery is already a stockist of Amanda’s amazing silver and gold jewellery so you have probably seen her stunning lily collection in Heart Gallery previously. On February 14th Amanda will be at Heart Gallery to talk to you about your bridal jewellery ideas and can also help you choose those perfect Bridesmaid’s gifts. Amanda’s silver lily collection is stunning and perfect for your SPECIAL day but she also has a fabulous rose collection too which can be chosen in polished silver and oxidised silver.

If you prefer more precious metals then we can also quote for any of Amanda’s pieces in yellow or white gold.

As well as showcasing stunning bridal jewellery from top UK based designer/makers you can also bring your partner along too to look at a wide range of cufflinks from these makers. When it comes to gifts for your bridal party, personalise. This shows that you have taken time with the gift and it makes a great keepsake. You can do this in a number of ways. Bespoke is one. Have a jeweller make jewellery to your specification for your bridesmaids or cufflinks for the groomsmen. There will be many handcrafted cufflinks on display in Heart Gallery on Sunday 14th February so not only can the groom choose a pair to compliment his Wedding suit but so can the Best Man and Ushers knowing that they are choosing the Best of British Craft.

You can also see fabulous silk ties from textile artist Clare Webster who can talk you through the different silk swatches and match the silk to the bridesmaid’s dresses or a colour scheme of your choice. Clare also makes amazingly sculptural bags and scarves which are just perfect for the mother of the bride or groom and the choice of silk colours is endless so you can match to the outfit or the shoes and stand out from the crowd. So, if you are looking for an outfit for your daughter or son’s wedding, our advice would be to have something designed for you which is not typical mother of the bride and could be worn afterwards. Its always good to know if your accessories have been designed specifically for you as there’s no chance of meeting someone else in the same thing and Clare can make sure this happens.

Or you could chose something stylish for your home from our London boys, Dan Black and Martin Blum. These guys have numerous design awards under their belts and Heart Gallery is this area’s stockist of their amazing products.

At Heart Gallery, you’ll find every gift exceeds your expectations, from practical and innovative products to the luxurious and indulgent. You can choose from quality, well-established design-led brands and endlessly stylish exclusive lines from some of the UK’s top designer/makers working in ceramics, glass, textiles, wood and wall art. With a price range to match anyone’s budget you will not be disappointed choosing Heart Gallery as the destination for your wedding guests.

So folks, I hope we shall see you on Valentines’ Day and if you know anyone who may be joining with another to celebrate the union of love this year then pass this info blog on to them. Heart Gallery is a destination 365 days of the year but on February 14th, 2010, Heart Gallery will be THE place to be if you are getting married, thinking of getting married or taking your commitment to your partner to the next level and planning your civil ceremony. Resident at Heart Gallery on Valentines’ Day will be Sarah Mason a local wedding photographer, Sarah Jenkins confectioner, Clare Webster textile artist, Heather Wilson hat maker and Amanda Cox, Bex Bardon and other UK based jewellery designer/makers to discuss your requirements and of course you will also have the expertise of Heart Gallery staff at your disposal in an extremely relaxed environment.
See you soon, Alison xXx

Snow, snow and more snow!

2010-01-08T06:25:00.000-08:00

My 'young' really enjoyed the big snowfall on Christmas Day at Dad's house and it was quite magical being surrounded by 'the white stuff' even if it nearly stopped us getting up Dad's very slippy lane for our Christmas family gathering.

I love the men in my life and this is a great picture of my Dad, hubby and son .... before our obligatory Bucks Fizz too!

Whizz our hamster joined in the Christmas fun and enjoyed eating the pine needles and making a den in the wrapping paper!!

All that seems so long ago already and we have had even more snow and school closures so I am starting to think 'enough already' ... but it is so beautiful.

So I hope that you are enjoying the snow too wherever you are, stay safe if you have to travel in it and best wishes for 2010, Alison x

Happy Christmas and a Joyous 2010

2009-12-24T05:56:00.000-08:00

A very Happy Christmas to you all and wishing a joyous 2010 with fun and laughter. As children, we laugh hundreds of times each day, delighted by the newness of living. When we reach adulthood, however, we tend to not allow ourselves to let go in a good belly laugh. Inviting laughter back into our lives is simply a matter of making the conscious decision to laugh. Though most of us are incited to laugh only when exposed to humor or the unexpected, each of us is capable of laughing at will. A laugh that comes from the belly carries with it the same positive effects whether prompted by a funny joke or consciously willed into existence. When our laughter comes from the core of our being, it permeates every cell in our physical selves, beginning in the center and radiating outward, until we are not merely belly laughing but rather body laughing.

Laughter has been a part of the human mode of expression since before evolution granted us the art of speech. Through it, we connected with allies while demonstrating our connection with people we didn’t know. In the present, laughter allows us to enjoy positive shared experiences with strangers and loved ones alike. Yet solitary laughter carries with it its own slew of benefits. An energetic and enthusiastic bout of whole-body laughter exercises the muscles, the lungs, and the mind in equal measure, leaving us feeling relaxed and content. When we laugh heartily at life’s ridiculousness instead of responding irritably, our focus shifts. Anger, stress, guilt, and sadness no longer wield any influence over us, and we are empowered to make light of what we originally feared. Laughter also opens our hearts, letting love and light in, changing our perspective, and enabling us to fix our attention on what is positive in our lives.

It is easy to laugh when we feel good, but it is when the world appears dim that we most need laughter in our lives. Our laughter then resonates through our hearts, filling the empty spaces with pure, unadulterated joy. We regain our footing in the moment and remember that no sorrow is powerful enough to rob us of our inborn happiness. When we understand that uninhibited laughter is the food of the soul, nourishing us from within, we know instinctively that life is worthwhile.

Live, laugh and love your way through this next decade. xXx

Late Night Shopping

2009-11-21T13:29:00.000-08:00

Hebden Bridge is the perfect place for your late night shopping and it all kicks off this coming Thursday, 26 November, when Chris Chittell (Eric Pollard, Emmerdale) switches on the lights in the town and snow will fall on Heart Gallery, Market Street, Bridge Gate and The Square.

Avoid crowded cities and support your local independents by coming down to Hebden Bridge to do your Christmas shopping; there's so much to see ...

... so see you soon xXx

All I Want ... Christmas at Heart Gallery

2009-11-11T09:24:00.000-08:00

Our Christmas Exhibition 'All I Want ...' got off to a cracking start this last weekend, despite the grim weather we had sadly got used to after a full week of rain and possible flooding! The nasty weather did not seem to put people off visiting Hebden Bridge and there was a lovely atmosphere in Heart Gallery as customers browsed all the new work.

New jewellery from Lucy Palmer, inspired by myths, fairytales and folklore, was well received as was

beautiful porcelain work from Clare Mahoney.

Other inspiring pieces were from Alison Dupernex - her unisex silk and cashmere scarves were admired by customers - and Jill Ford's delicate ceramic pieces decorated with porcelain old roses.

There is not enough time for me to show you all the new pieces on this blog so why not take time out of your busy schedule to come along to Hebden Bridge for a day out. Call into Heart Gallery and see all the wonderful new work then treat yourself to a coffee, cake or lunch and wander around all the lovely independent shops in this picturesque Pennine Town... See you soon x

Bjorg Jewellery at Heart Gallery

2009-10-24T11:12:00.000-07:00

Norwegian designer Bjorg claims her inspiration, in part, from the Nordic nature she grew up with, believing that unpretentious beauty can find a place and be reflected in the most unlikely places. Bjorg went to art school in Oslo before working in the fashion industry, enabling her to travel the world, developing her style and the ethos of her designs.

While typically focussing on British designers, we simply could not ignore the striking combination of glamour and natural appeal in Bjorg's surprising jewellery. We love that her work verges on eccentric Gothic vintage.

Christmas at Heart

2009-10-19T06:58:00.000-07:00

Well folks, it is that time of year again so just to bring you up to date with what's happening at Heart Gallery here is the exclusive invite for the launch of our Christmas Selling Exhibition, All I Want ...

It would be lovely to see you on Saturday 7th November but don't worry if you can't get to Hebden Bridge that day, the exhibition runs until 10th January 2010 and we are open 7 days a week and until 8pm Thursdays 26th November, 3rd December, 10th December and 17th December.

Late night shopping on Thursday 26th November will see the Christmas Lights switched on in Hebden Bridge and lots of festive things happening around the town. There will be Carol Singers at Heart Gallery and, with a bit of luck (still trying to finalise it) roast chestnuts too!

If you follow this link it will lead you to a photo album of new work at Heart Gallery so you can have a sneaky peak:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=114324&id=682814520

Also new at Heart Gallery is our Heart's Desire List. All you have to do is visit and point out any work that your heart desires, we will add it to your list and save it so that all you then need to do is send your friends and family in to choose from it when you have a special occasion to buy for such as a Birthday, Anniversary or, of course, for Christmas. Let them know your Heart's Desire List is at Heart Gallery and we will do the rest!

This little beauty of a cuff is on my Heart's Desire List:

See you soon

Alison x

One piece of beautiful jewellery and two beautiful ladies tie the knot!

2009-10-03T13:04:00.000-07:00

Friday 11th September and the sun was certainly shining on these two lovely ladies for their wedding day as Mel decided to make an honest woman of Sue!

Sue is a regular exhibitor at Heart Gallery with her delicate boxes hand-built from porcelain clay slabs. Sue's pieces are fired twice in her old re-conditioned front-loading kiln. She has tried various clay body and glaze combinations, but has settled on a French porcelain called Limoges, and a transparent glaze which is silky to the touch, and enhances the cleanness of the lines and form. All Sue's work is food-safe and waterproof.

Mel contributes enormously to The Hebden Bridge Handmade Parade which is a community-generated parade led by local artists which celebrates the creativity, variety and the uniqueness of Hebden Bridge and its surrounding areas. As an area fiercely proud of its local character, and apparently internationally known for its funkiness, the Hebden Bridge parade is not your average small town parade so Mel should be proud of its achievements the last two years.

Sue and Mel came down to see me a few days before their civil ceremony and reception at The Devonshire Arms, Bolton Abbey to find something suitable for Mel to wear around her neck that would remain a classic piece worn time and time again. They both knew the type of thing they wanted and as soon as they saw Hannah Souter's range from my ACJ exhibition, Cambridge they knew that they had found 'the one'.

Hannah's work is strongly influenced by her love of organic forms, in particular seed pods and buds. Comprising of hand press formed and individually fabricated units, her jewellery combines subtle surface textures and contrasting finishes to create unique pieces of fine jewellery. Heart Gallery was proud that Hannah wanted to showcase her work in Hebden Bridge with the Cambridge branch of The Association of Contemporary Jewellery.

Sue and Mel had just a fabulous day, everything was perfect, and this close up of them proves that ... and also shows how perfect Hannah's pendant was around Mel's neck.

Heart Gallery sends heartfelt love and best wishes to Sue and Mel for a happy and joyous life together. xXx

Clare Caulfield

2009-09-26T14:22:00.000-07:00

It was just like Christmas for me yesterday opening my new parcel from Clare Caulfield; it's always such a delight to receive her top up orders for Heart Gallery.

Clare's new work features Includes Rome and Istanbul, two new cities she has added to her ever-expanding collection, and new prints of Paris, Venice, Leeds and York.

Clare's work does not tend to hang around for long in Heart Gallery and with a choice of framed originals, signed limited edition prints, canvas prints and greetings cards there is something for everyone's taste and pocket.

See you soon x

Saltaire Festival and Arts Trail

2009-09-20T14:55:00.000-07:00

I have had an absolutely lovely day out in Saltaire with my hubby whilst our daughter was at a horse show with her riding school. The sun shone, the open houses were amazing (20 participating now in an Arts Trail which started with 6 houses), the continental market enticed me to buy lots of scummy things and there were so many lovely artists and people there it was just like being back at Heart Gallery in Hebden Bridge!

This is the website of Mark Yates (who has showcased his work in Heart Gallery over the last 2 years) and who participated in both the Arts Trail (6 Harold Place) and had a stall on one of the busy streets selling his 'touring' merchandise. http://www.markyates.co.uk

The street entertainers were amazing ...

The food was scrummy ...

and my new boots are so comfortable ...

glad I wore them as we covered some miles!

So, this is the link for this festival and Arts Trail so bookmark it and if you didn't get there this year then do try to manage it next, it is worth a visit. x
http://www.saltaireartstrail.co.uk/index.html

Oh, and this is Clare Caulfield's pen and ink drawing of the united Reformed Church in Saltaire, photograph above, her work is amazing and available at Heart Gallery ...

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair

2009-09-15T09:32:00.000-07:00

Now in its second year, the Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair (GNCCF) features over 140 exhibitors showcasing the finest works of contemporary craft. Visitors can spend the day in a relaxed yet inspiring atmosphere, chat to the makers and find out the story and making process behind each unique piece. Learning how much attention to detail a designer pays whilst handcrafting work is a reminder that we should be buying items that will last decades, rather than years.

Heart Gallery supports the GNCCF and many of the makers exhibiting last year have showcased their amazing work in Heart Gallery over the last 12 months. This year will be no exception and it will be really hard to choose from them all as the standard of work is so high. Heart Gallery hopes that some of you will visit this event in October at Spinningfields, just off Deansgate in the heart of Manchester, and soak up this unique shopping experience and for those that can't - there's always Heart Gallery!

Public Openings
Friday 23rd October 11.00am - 8.30pm
Saturday 24th October 10.00am - 6.00pm
Sunday 25th October - 10.00am - 5.00pm

5 pairs of tickets to be won to the fair!

Own Art has 5 pairs of day tickets to give away to the fair. To be entered into the prize draw, email ownart@artscouncil.org.uk by midnight on 25 September 2009 quoting 'GNCCF' in the subject line.

New craft magazines now in Heart Gallery

2009-09-13T12:16:00.000-07:00

Hebden Bridge is in such a creative valley that I am surprised how few of these magazines you talented bunch buy from Heart Gallery.

I have decided that it may be because I don't let you know when the new issues arrive, so I am going to post the covers in future so that you are more informed.

I also stock Selvedge but there is a delay on the printing of the issue now due - will keep you posted!

September in Heart Gallery

2009-09-08T06:29:00.000-07:00

September brings with it early mornings as we all get back into the school routine! As a family we are night owls so this has been a difficult few days adjusting but I bet it has been the same for many others too!

These milk jugs, made from recycled milk bottles, have just arrived at Heart Gallery along with tumblers made from Coke bottles, Sol bottles, Corona bottles and J2O bottles. I have been very excited about this amazing work from Devon based Who’s? Glass. They are a fresh, young, environmentally aware glass-making company that specialises in unique hand crafted recycled glassware. Their intentions are to transform, what in effect is simple domestic glass waste, into contemporary functional glassware products. “ In a day where the easiest and cheapest option is mass produced, often by machines, products that have travelled half the world to arrive on the shop shelves, Who’s? Glass offers beautiful, simple designs that emphasise the essence, quality and tranquillity of Devon... ”

All are beautifully presented in totally recycled packaging so are great for treats and perfect for pressies.

Gosh, that looks inviting! Make mine a pint!

THE JEWELLERY ROADSHOW - ACJ CAMBRIDGE

2009-08-21T14:06:00.001-07:00

In the current financial climate it is more important than ever that we are proactive in developing our creative talent, honing our practical skills, marketing our products and clinching that all important sale. Joining a group of like-minded people can be a vital part of developing and promoting talent in a given area. As a jeweller living a rural Cambridgeshire, I find conversing and sharing ideas with other creative people both inspiring and rejuvenating. When I heard about the ACJ I knew that it was an organisation that I would find enormously beneficial. This is the story so far...

The Association for Contemporary Jewellery (ACJ) was founded as a membership association in 1997 to promote, represent, understand and develop contemporary jewellery in the United Kingdom and abroad. The ACJ organizes conferences, lectures, seminars and workshops for its members, as well as publishing a quarterly newsletter featuring news, reviews and information. The ACJ is open to everyone who has an interest in contemporary jewellery. The organisation includes both professional and enthusiastic hobbyist jewellers, lecturers and students as well as gallery and shop owners. In fact anyone with a passion for jewellery can become a member.

ACJ-Cambridge is a regional branch of the ACJ, formed in 2008 to develop a network of jewellers in our local area. We meet once a month to discuss current issues, share knowledge, stimulate ideas and plan exhibitions to promote contemporary jewellery in the eastern region and beyond. A year from the group’s

initial formation, we have grown from a handful of members to our current sixteen strong team. We are a very eclectic mix of individuals with vast ranges in background, training, age and design styles. Some of our members are full time jewellers, who sell direct to the public at design shows and through galleries. A number of our full time jewellers are also lecturers in the subject and teach in a variety of schools and colleges around the county. Several of our members are part-time jewellers, juggling their creative talents with other unrelated jobs and/or young families. Our backgrounds are all very different, whilst some have had formal training up to degree and post graduate level, others are either self taught, or have only attended a few short courses. The materials we use to create our jewellery vary greatly within the group. Precious metals and stones, semi-precious stones, textiles, glass and recycled material are all used to create unique and fabulous work. We see our group as a real support network, working together to run exhibitions, functions, workshops and talks; supporting newer members who are maybe lacking in confidence and invigorating the more experienced jewellers to encourage fresh work. At Cambridge we are an increasingly active group. We have a varied skills base, a vast amount of experience, good contacts and more ideas than we have yet had time to put into action. As a fairly new group we have spent a great deal of time this year planning events and exhibitions.

We are launching a new exhibition, The Jewellery Roadshow - ACJ Cambridge, in August this year. The idea is to create a travelling exhibition which will be continually travelling from gallery to gallery. Much of the work in this exhibition will be unique and different from work exhibited elsewhere. The Jewellery Roadshow - ACJ Cambridge will be launched on 29th August, with Alison Bartram owner of Heart Gallery in Hebden Bridge, to coincide with the 3rd birthday of her gallery www.heartgallery.co.uk With Alison’s enthusiasm, dynamic drive and wide ranging marketing skills and our creativity, the exhibition is guaranteed to get off to a flying start. Everyone involved is really excited about this collaboration and we are anticipating a busy day on Saturday 29^th August when people will be invited to join us to view our exclusive collections and enjoy a glass of fizz whilst being able to talk to all ten artists exhibiting, and of course to Alison. The Jewellery Roadshow - ACJ Cambridge will run from 29^th August 2009 until 27^th September.

We then bring the Roadshow home to Cambridge, where we are exhibiting at the well established and renowned Primavera Gallery www.primaverauk.com where the owner, Jeremy Waller, is enthusiastically supporting our group. The exhibition runs from 10th October until January 2010. WATCH THIS SPACE!

July/August - new and exciting work in Heart Gallery

2009-07-22T11:16:00.000-07:00

Born and raised in Bradford, England, Mark has always combined music and art. Trained in graphics, he has also designed album sleeves for his own rock ‘n’ roll band Terrorvision.

Mark has an ever developing style taking influences from old school tattoos and modern day street culture. Brought up on the likes of Sailor Jerry, Ed Hardy and Vince Ray, Mark’s love of kitsch and low brow art is obvious.

With outlets in Britain, Sweden and Florida, Mark's work is rapidly cropping up in cool bars, funky apartments and burlesque clubs worldwide.

Mark finds painting like song writing has no boundaries, pictures can evolve from a simple idea, a sequence of colours or an entire vision. Like Mark's guitar playing these paintings are strikingly colourful and flamboyantly loud.

Blondes

2009-07-19T16:13:00.000-07:00

These originals have sold but it's a sneaky peak for you as to what is arriving in Heart Gallery real soon. This BLONDES exhibition just wants to have fun! Like these? You'll lOVE the rest.

See you soon, Alison x

Hebden Bridge Open Studios and Arts Festival

2009-07-05T14:05:00.001-07:00

An annual highlight for the Calder Valley, Hebden Bridge Arts Festival brings the best national and international artists and performers to the area each summer for a celebration of comedy, music, dance, drama, literature and visual arts.

The 2009 Festival will run from Friday June 26 to Sunday July 12 and promises to be another fortnight of dazzling and diverse performances.

Here is a link to the exhibitions that are running during this time so we hope to see you in Hebden Bridge soon:

http://www.hebdenbridge.co.uk/festival/2009/events/exhibitions

2009-07-04T14:44:00.000-07:00

A new delivery of lovely vintage pieces for July.

Feast your eyes on this very small selection of pieces that have arrived recently in Heart Gallery. There are lots of earrings to choose from, probably a colour to go with every outift in your wardrobe to be honest! Also included in this lovely collection from Pip are hair slides, rings, cufflinks, an Alice in Wonderland necklace, this amazing fan brooch and gorgeous bracelet and if you want some magnetic scrabble tiles then Heart Gallery is where to find them! See you soon, Alison x

Angels and Insects Collection Spring Summer 09 at Heart Gallery, Hebden Bridge

2009-06-16T16:03:00.000-07:00

Angels and Insects Collection Spring Summer 2009

Delicate, feminine summer dawn infused knits, include gossamer fine mohair ruched into shrugs, delicately traced butterfly inspired capes, bee delighting foxglove-fluted ruffles and lace panelled wing motifs...

re-new exhibition Heart Gallery

2009-06-10T14:08:00.001-07:00

This exciting exhibition launches Tuesday 16 June at 6pm and runs from 17 June until 19 July whilst the Hebden Bridge Arts Festival programme is in full swing.

Heart Gallery welcomes you to a world of recycling! Embracing new work by chosen designer/makers in different disciplines who work with recycled or sustainable materials and are inspired by reclamation processes. These designer/makers love to create something new from something old and discarded and we hope you love their creations.

We hope to see you there, you will not be disappointed.

Warm wishes

Alison

Award for one of my UK makers

2009-04-18T12:08:00.000-07:00

I just wanted to share some news with you tonight that I have just found out from one of my UK makers, well two actually, mum and daughter!

Becks and Susan Jennings have just returned from the British Craft Trade Fair with another award. They won the Craftsman Craft and Design Magazine for Highly Commended Best Newcomer which is amazing.

I have been selling their fantastically fun alternatives to the boring jewellery box for nearly a year now so know how popular and amazing their work is. If you can't get down to Heart Gallery in Hebden Bridge to buy your own little cupcake, ice cream or chocolate box then visit them at http://naive.biz and please make sure you mention Heart Gallery.

http://www.naive.biz

2009-03-27T14:46:00.000-07:00

New work arriving daily at Heart Gallery

2009-03-26T15:19:00.000-07:00

The last couple of weeks have been really exciting as Heart Gallery gets Spring cleaned and new work arrives daily ... all very exciting.

If you can bob in to see it all first hand then you are one of the lucky ones and if not then please enjoy the images here. These are some images of Clare Caulfield's amazing new original water colours and limited edition prints which were eagerly anticipated this week and arrived today.

You can also see all the new arrivals in my Facebook albums and on the heartgalleryblog website. Just check into the main Heart Gallery website at heartgallery.co.uk and follow the links. Enjoy and I hope to see you soon in Heart Gallery, Hebden Bridge.

Marvelous March

2009-03-11T14:30:00.004-07:00

Well, I really hope that Spring is well and truly on its way - it certainly feels like it at home as the bulbs start to push their way through the soil.

March should be a month when we feel much lighter as the daylight lasts that little bit longer. It's been great hearing our 'young' enjoying themselves in the village until after 6pm.

It certainly feels brighter in Heart Gallery as all the marvelous new work arrives and if you follow these links you can see some photographs of a small handful of pieces now on display in Heart Gallery.

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=63398&id=682814520

http://heartgalleryblog.wordpress.com

Enjoy all the lovely colours .....

THE GREATS 2009

2009-03-09T08:00:00.000-07:00

On Thursday May 21 Progressive Gifts & Home magazine will be holding its seventh 'Greats' retail awards ceremony at The Royal Lancaster Hotel in London, to celebrate excellence within gift retailing. The Greats are established as the premier awards event of the year as it brings together the entire industry for a night of celebration. The Greats recognise and celebrate not only the top independent and multiple gift retailers regionally and nationally, but also the new breed of gift retailers as well as outstanding retail employees.

Heart Gallery, a Contemporary Jewellery and Craft Gallery on Market Street, Hebden Bridge, has been announced this week as a FINALIST in the BEST GIFT RETAILER OF JEWELLERY category.

Having won BEST NEWCOMER NORTH AND SCOTLAND in 2008 I thought that it couldn't get any better than this yet this fabulous news this week is just the icing on the cake.

There will be stiff competition for this as this category is not regional but national but I am happy to have got this far.

I now face a nail-biting wait until May 21 when the winners will be announced at a glamourous, Venetian themed, Greats Awards ceremony. Wish me luck!

Research and Development = exciting new work due in Heart Gallery

2009-03-04T14:41:00.000-08:00

I have spent 3 days lost in the internet looking for exciting new makers for Heart Gallery and it's always rewarding. I have put together an exhibition for June to coincide with Hebden Bridge's Arts Festival and it is slowly coming together nicely.

If you are a UK based designer/maker working with recycled materials, or if you make something new and loved from something old and discarded, then I would love to hear from you for this exhibition. Just email me at Heart Gallery and I will forward some details.

Thank you.

Warm wishes

Alison

Welcome

2009-02-24T13:53:00.000-08:00

Hi there, and welcome to my new blog pages which will hopefully keep you updated with Heart Gallery news periodically - in other words ... when time allows!! Which brings me nicely on to what I want to say tonight.

I am not really going to write too much about Heart Gallery tonight, although it is important to this blog. When the clocks went back last year by an hour it got me thinking about time. I remember that this turning back of time gave me a much needed extra hour in bed, many other people an extra hour socialising with friends or family and others, no doubt, another hour of drinking time! You often hear people saying "if only I could turn back time" or talking about hindsight being a wonderful thing and "doing things differently were they able to live that part of their life again". Would I wish to turn back the clock further than that hour ... no.

I believe I am the person I am today because of the paths I have trodden and the journeys I have taken and I like who I am, like where I am and more importantly am thankful that I am here now to live this life.

I opened Heart Gallery over 2 years ago because I wanted to work for myself, wanted to give Hebden Bridge something it didn't already have, wanted to enjoy walking into work every day, wanted to feel passionate about what I did. I still feel that same passion and pride today that I had the day Heart Gallery first opened. I feel it every morning when I put my key in the big, black door of Heart Gallery, open it, see the beautiful space and smell the building.

Heart Gallery will never make me rich and able to retire early but that isn't what I am driven by as I am rich in other ways. It isn't easy to take that leap of faith into self employment but it has a greater chance of success if you do it for the right reasons, and I didn't take that step to make me rich but to enrich.

I can't say that it is easy; it is extremely hard work and takes 100% commitment to get it right. I can't say it doesn't affect family or social life as I have to work hard to find the right balance; and I don't always get it right! I can't say that it hasn't been without casualties but these have happened for a reason and out of my control but ultimately for the better.

What I can say is that my loyal customers remind me regularly that I did the right thing and they love visiting Heart Gallery as much as I love living Heart Gallery so if you haven't yet been to Hebden Bridge or to Heart Gallery, make that trip - it is so worthwhile and you will not be disappointed. It's a fabulously creative town filled with many independent shops and cafes that offer so much more and you will find unusual and unique treats or gifts that you can't get anywhere else. Heart Gallery offers a warm welcome and amazing work by over 75 local and UK based designer/makers and I look forward to seeing you in the future.

Heart Gallery

An amazing commission for a special Birthday

Keys to your Heart

Christmas at Heart

Late Night Shopping at Heart Gallery, Hebden Bridge

Christmas Cards at Heart Gallery

Crafts For Christmas at Hardcastle Crags

GORGEOUS GIFTS AT HEART

Baby Hair Ring Commission

Sizzling September at Heart Gallery

Remnants - Su Blackwell

Own Art at Heart Gallery

Own Art

I still don't think that customers fully understand how the Own Art Scheme works so here's some info for you all. Almost everything at Heart Gallery is covered by this scheme and you can buy from different makers or just your favourite one.

Ceramics by Rowena Gilbert

Just bring 2 forms of ID with you when you come to shop, the process is quick and easy and a decision is made there and then.

Limited Edition prints and original pen and inks by Clare Caulfield

Own Art certainly comes in handy at Christmas as you can group lots of beautiful pieces together and get all your pressies under one roof ... we even gift wrap everything for you!

Silver and freshwater pearl Lily collection by local jeweller Amanda Cox

Silver and 22ct gold plate seed pod collection by Claire Troughton

Read more about Own Art here.

Photographs of Hebden Bridge by award winning local photographer Nigel Hillier

Own Art

Summer Show

Joyful June

Ceramic showcase at Heart Gallery

Alice in Wonderland arrives at Heart Gallery

Totally Locally in Hebden Bridge

'I DO' Wedding Show, Heart Gallery, Valentines Day

Snow, snow and more snow!

Happy Christmas and a Joyous 2010

Late Night Shopping

All I Want ... Christmas at Heart Gallery

Bjorg Jewellery at Heart Gallery

Christmas at Heart

One piece of beautiful jewellery and two beautiful ladies tie the knot!

Clare Caulfield

Saltaire Festival and Arts Trail

Great Northern Contemporary Craft Fair

New craft magazines now in Heart Gallery

September in Heart Gallery

THE JEWELLERY ROADSHOW - ACJ CAMBRIDGE

July/August - new and exciting work in Heart Gallery

Blondes

Hebden Bridge Open Studios and Arts Festival

Angels and Insects Collection Spring Summer 09 at Heart Gallery, Hebden Bridge

Angels and Insects Collection Spring Summer 2009

re-new exhibition Heart Gallery

Award for one of my UK makers

New work arriving daily at Heart Gallery

Marvelous March

THE GREATS 2009

Research and Development = exciting new work due in Heart Gallery

Welcome