Art Gallery to Open in Former Hardware Store Site
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Loading... - Martisse Bertin
- 24 Jan 2025
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An exciting new chapter is set to begin in Brighton as an art gallery prepares to open in the location of a former hardware store that has been a staple in the community for over a century. Dockerills, which had been operating since 1915, closed its doors in September 2022, citing challenges such as the Covid-19 pandemic, rising overhead costs, and declining trade.
Kellie Miller Arts (KMA) Gallery is set to open at the Church Street site in April, marking a significant transformation for the space. Originally launched as a pop-up gallery by Kellie Miller 11 years ago, the new permanent location will allow KMA to expand its offerings, effectively doubling its size.
A spokesperson for KMA expressed enthusiasm about the move, stating, "Specially selected by the highly respected family that owns Dockerills to take over their retail space, KMA's new gallery will increase the scale and breadth of artworks on offer, as well as provide new event and collaboration opportunities within the local community."
The new KMA Gallery will span two floors and will feature a diverse range of artworks, including paintings, ceramics, and sculptures from local, national, and international artists. The gallery aims to foster connections between independent artists and audiences worldwide, creating a vibrant cultural hub in the heart of Brighton.
Kellie Miller, the founder of KMA, has a strong background in the arts. She earned her first degree in arts from the University of Brighton in 1994, followed by an MA in arts criticism from City University, London, in 2001. Since becoming a professional artist in 1994, Miller has been actively involved in the local arts community and is a founding member of Hove Arts, which participates in the Open House Trail as part of the Brighton Festival.
The opening of KMA Gallery is expected to breathe new life into the area, providing a space for artistic expression and community engagement. With its commitment to showcasing a wide array of artworks and hosting events, the gallery aims to become a focal point for art lovers and creators alike.
As Brighton continues to evolve, the transition from a hardware store to an art gallery symbolizes the city's dynamic cultural landscape and the ongoing support for independent artists and businesses. The community eagerly anticipates the grand opening of KMA Gallery and the vibrant artistic experiences it will bring.
