Bourneside Gallery, located just off the heart of the high street on North Street, is one of Dorking’s most reputable galleries. Focusing on original work from talented British printmakers, we caught up with Pete to discuss history, art, and the safety measures in place at Bourneside Gallery.
Based in the 17th century building, original works of art breathe colour into the light and airy space. Pete explains to me that back in the 1700s, the now gallery used to be The Gun Pub. Pointing to an upstairs rear bedroom window, he explains that this is an example of the original Elizabethan architecture.
Overall there are three rooms to explore, the walls adorned with limited original prints and paintings. Pete & Judy deliver their expertise and knowledge in understandable and approachable terms.
The Artists promoted are both national and local. He explains that he holds work from “RE artists” which is the Royal Society of Painter-Printmakers and is one of the premiere printmaking societies.
Linocut prints together with collagraphs, etchings and screen prints are all found at Bourneside, top quality in their perfect execution from reputable artists. Some of the notable artists residing in the Gallery are Christine Hopkins from the Society of Graphic Fine Art, Louise Davies, Gail Brodholt and Jane Walker, all fellows of the Royal Society of Painter-Printmakers.
As well as national artists, Bourneside Gallery also supports local Dorking Artists, such as Diana Croft, an established printmaker, Jennifer Jokhoo’s exceptional reduction linocuts, Vicky Oldfield with her beautiful collagraphs and Fran McCaskill, an artist whose medium is glass work. Aside from the originals which line the walls of Bourneside Gallery, there is also a fine range of cards, ceramics, glass, pewter, jewellery. Perfect as a gift or for the coffee table. A section is also dedicated to collectable mid-century original prints and ceramics, notably originating from Scandinavia and Europe.
Pete mentions that Bourneside Gallery started with 12 artists back in 2012 when he and his wife, Judy moved the business to Dorking and now stocks over 60 national and local artists over the three spacious rooms in the gallery. When you enter the gallery, after sanitising your hands at the hand sanitiser station located at the entrance, you can find Pete or Judy at the desk, on-hand to help and give their expertise from a safe distance.
Forgotten your mask? No trouble, Pete has plenty on hand for free.
There are also mirrors now located in the doorways so you can see into the room beforehand for social distancing. Though this should not be a problem, as only six people can enter the gallery at one time.
Friendly and warm, no question is too silly which is a welcoming relief to anyone daunted by inexperience in art – though eager to invest in one-off, original works of art.
Next time you are passing North Street, drop in and say hello at Bourneside Gallery. You’ll be sure to find that perfect picture to hang over the fireplace as the colder months approach.
