Oswestry's Willow Gallery and Cafe is a stunning contemporary art space and exquisite cafe in the heart of this Welsh border market town. Regular exhibitions, talks and shows make this a must visit for locals and visitors alike.
INTRODUCING THE WILLOW GALLERY & CAFE
Walk in to The Willow Gallery in Oswestry and the magic of the place doesn't so much hit you as put an arm around you and warmly welcome you in.
The smell of seriously fine coffee, the eclectic music selection and glimpses of painting, sculpture, ceramic, furniture, textile and projection make this a true highlight of Shropshire life.
ONCE UPON A TIME...
...not so long ago, a transformation took place on Willow Street at quite astonishing speed! Inspired by the vision of Peter Vidal of furniture maker, Vidal & Company, a former car showroom building became stunning contemporary art gallery along with an exquisite cafe designed by one of Oswestry's leading restaurants, The Walls.
The gallery has become one of THE places to meet with friends, wander around the exhibitions, visit the emporium of artisan and vintage shops surrounding it or simply to enjoy the relaxing yet stimulating atmosphere.
REGULAR EXHIBITIONS
Hosting a packed season of exhibitions, The Willow Gallery have recently brought together leading artists of painting, sculpture and photography to put together some unforgettable showcases of talent.
Visit their website: www.willowartgallery.co.uk or email info@willowartgallery.co.uk to join their mailing list to hear about upcoming exhibitions and talks.
TALKING OF TALKS
The Willow Gallery also host evenings of talks by artists and artisans to provide insights into their work and their craft. Recently, this has included a fascinating exhibition and talk by the highly-regarded Castle Arts Foundry based in Llanrhaeder and one of the UKs leading young sculptors, George Triggs.
They have also been talks on Stained Glass by Jane Gray, a fellow of British Society of Master Glass Painters and on "Life as an Artist" by Kay Boyce, one of the country's top female figurative artists.
CAFE AT THE WILLOW
The Cafe @ The Willow is a probably the most relaxing space in town with delicious uncomplicated food provided from The Walls restaurant, really great coffee and cakes to die for. Oh, and squishy sofas - need I say more. :)
ARTISAN & VINTAGE EMPORIUM
Along with The Willow Gallery is an emporium of top-class artisan and vintage shops unique to Shropshire and the Welsh Borders and housed in one of Oswestry's oldest timbered buildings - well worth a visit!
For wine, champagnes and spirits, Pssssst! - a Dickensian Wine Shop has "secret wines and fripperies & good things to quaff & scoff".
Next door to Pssssst! pop in to Timeless Vintage, easily one of the best vintage clothing shops in Shropshire & Mid-Wales.
And on the corner, one of the country's leading mastercraftman, Ken Kapal, specialises in crafting bespoke wedding rings and jewellery to your own design.
ART COURSES AND WORKSHOPS
For artists of all abilities and ages, The Willow Gallery regularly host courses with a variety of tutors such as Tereska Shepherd on painting, print-making and felt-making, silk painting and salt dough making for children,
HIRING THE GALLERY SPACE OR DUNBABIN ROOM
If you're looking for a superb room for a business meeting or presentation, wedding reception or private event, the gallery is a wonderfully sophisticated space with all the features of a kitchen, toilet facilities and car parking.
The Dunbabin Room is another great sized room for private events, birthday parties - great community space for groups of all kinds to hold meetings and talks. A lovely room amidst one of Oswestry's oldest buildings.
To book and get information on their competitive rates, email info@willowartgallery.co.uk or call on 01691 657575.
OPENING TIMES
The Willow Gallery & Cafe are open Monday to Saturday from 10am to 6pm
GETTING IN TOUCH
Either pop in to the gallery and cafe on Willow Street, or give them a call on 01691 657575. If you'd like to hire the gallery space or the Dunbabin Room, give them a call anytime, and you are welcome to have a look around.
THE WILLOW GALLERY SHOP
Bringing together a select range of designed gifts, cards and lifestyle objects, ceramics, knitted bags, turned wooden bowls and glassware.
Drop in to see their latest range.