Art company opens up in new Telford premises

Ironbridge Fine Arts and Framing had been in their previous gallery within the former Merrythought factory in Ironbridge for seven years.

They have now moved into the site of the former Ironbridge Brewery, expanding the size of their gallery.

The business, which makes and sells a range or printing presses, offers museum-standard framing, workshops in print making, has studios available for rent by artists as well as regular exhibitions of fine art, is run by two sisters.

Jenny Gunning and her sister Sarah Marsh both run the business, after it was initially set up by their father, David Gunning, 40 years ago.

Ms Gunning said: "We're so happy with the expansion, it is a dream come true.

"Our dad began making printing presses as well as being an artist with 110 pieces in the Queen's private collection and others all over the world.

"He did all that while raising two daughters to love art and now we are able to run our own gallery.

"Our mother, Liz Gunning, is also a potter.

"This is a massive expansion on what we used to do."

As well as having the gallery open to the public, they also allow schoolchildren to come into the workshop and try their hand at learning printing techniques.

The business will be hosting an official opening on August 15 at 7pm, where the former curator of Wolverhampton Art Gallery, Brendan Flynn, will cut the ribbon and give a talk about art.

Ms Gunning said: "This really is a dream come true for us as a family.

"Art is in our blood and we are very passionate about it.

"I think this is now one of the largest private galleries that doesn't receive any funding, it is funded purely through the work that we do."

Ironbridge Fine Arts and Framing will be hosting regular exhibits of fine art, with displays already arranged for September.

They are also looking for an artist to rent one of their two studios.

For more information contact Ironbridge Fine Arts and Framing on 01952 434 033