The idea came from owner and art director of Hot Pepper Design, Mark Pepperall’s (pictured below) passion for the arts. The gallery was officially opened in September with a Champagne reception for more than 200 guests.
He said: “I’ve always loved going to galleries, art fairs and boutique design led shops in East London, Bath, Bristol, Paris etc and felt that it would be amazing to combine these things into one space.
“I think there’s something really exciting happening in Old Town at the moment with loads of exciting independent businesses upping their game; it’s gradually becoming the Clifton of Swindon and there’s so much potential here for it to get better and better! It’ll be really exciting to become one of those businesses offering something completely different to the mix.”
The gallery has 15 artists from all over the UK, with artists from Bath, Bristol, Birmingham, London, York and of course Swindon.
The gallery is exhibiting, and has for sale, work by Stanley Donwood, best known for his work with the band Radiohead, East London Street Artist Ein, well known Swindon artist Gordon Dickinson, Charming Baker, Katie Brightside and many more.
On offer is a mixture of fine art, sculpture, ceramics, jewellery and designer gifts. Oink also offer design services from their studio at the back of the gallery from brand identity through to Interior design. Oink also has a range of textiles, wrapping paper and soon to be released ceramic tiles and wallpaper.
