A DENBIGHSHIRE gallery is nearing its one-year anniversary.
The Dory Gallery, in Llangollen, opened in June 2021 and it is an independent creative and cultural space, which aims to showcase the best in contemporary art within the local area.
As a next step, the gallery will be partnering with Glyndwr University in an effort to support the next generation of artists.
Paying a visit to the gallery recently was Clwyd South MP Simon Baynes, who met with the owner Suzanne Mathieson.
Suzanne and her late partner, Dory Ross, moved to Llangollen in 2017 and took over the empty building in Regent Street, which was initially built in 1840 as a school for the poor, extended in 1870 and again in 1996 when it became the health centre for Llangollen.
However, in February 2020, Dory Ross passed away and Suzanne decided to officially open the Dory Gallery in his memory, to showcase his work and other local artists including Edward Bell, who is famous for designing a number of David Bowie’s album covers.
Suzanne Mathieson said: “I feel very passionate about keeping the art gallery open, offering the local community access to contemporary artwork and invite everyone to come and experience this for free.
"I plan on hosting a variety of cultural events in this beautiful building, which will assist in keeping it sustainable.
“I am particularly keen on engaging with a younger audience, so will be partnering with Glyndwr University to support emerging artists at the beginning of their careers.
"I look forward to welcoming all!”
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Simon Baynes MP said: “I was delighted to visit The Dory Gallery in Llangollen and to meet with Suzanne to see the brilliant exhibition space the gallery has to offer.
"I was saddened to hear of the passing of Dory Ross in 2020, but think that The Dory Gallery is a wonderful and fitting tribute to Dory and his paintings.
“I thoroughly enjoyed meeting Suzanne and would strongly recommend a visit to The Dory Gallery.”
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