Hopefully by now you may have seen our ‘Would Your Bank Go This Far?’ videos. We caught up with the star of ‘The Artist’ – Allie Fredericks who runs Hope Cove Gallery about running her business in the beautiful South Hams. Here’s what she had to say:
I really love Hope Cove and I really love my job. I was once told that whatever got me out of bed in the morning with a spring in my step was worth making a career out of. Up until 4 years ago I didn’t fully appreciate what that was!
Success should be measured in satisfaction not wealth and I’m rich in that.
I get to make whatever I like out of beachcombed finds and driftwood, chat to customers and represent the talented array of artists that the South Hams is known for….did I mention the Gallery is right by the beach?
I was always away with the fairies as a child, doodling for hours on end and quite happily keeping myself entertained with creative pursuits. After trying my hand at Nursing I chose Art and changed my degree. Whilst working several jobs I started taking seascape photos and making driftwood mirrors, selling them at my places of work. Soon I was offered a position running the gallery part time and never looked back. It was owned and founded by local artist Jon Woolfenden and Deli owner/Architecht Chris Povey. That was nearly 9 years ago. I eventually quit my other jobs and took the plunge to run the show full time, taking it over properly in 2014.
The Gallery exhibits a plethora of sea inspired Arts and Crafts made by over 30 local and Devon based artists (including Allie’s Mum). I would like to think there is something for everyone in there from a humble painted pebble to an enormous oil painting on canvas. The main focus for me is to showcase diversity, talent and affordability. It’s a small space with bags of character but its packed to the rafters with vibrant, fun and inspiring artwork. It’s an Aladdin’s Cave!
Hope Cove is a wonderful coastal village with great places to eat, stunning headland walks and sandy beaches. All you need to do is come here!
Allie’s brilliant work at Hope Cove Gallery has bought her recognition and she has been nominated for a Muddy Stilettos award in the Art Gallery category.
You can help her win the award by voting here: https://devon.muddystilettos.co.uk/vote/art-gallery/
And just in case you haven’t seen it yet, here’s the video!