A PHOTOGRAPHER from Pontypool has transformed her studio into an emporium showcasing work from young local artists.
Jenny Giles, owner and founder of Jenny Giles Photography, closed her studio for a week to turn the downstairs of her studio into a creative space which allows local artists to showcase their work and allows people to ‘shop local’.
The Emporium is now open to the public and displays and sells a range of home interiors, children’s clothes, jewellery and artwork.
Jenny Giles said: “When I started out 15 years ago I was trying to find a space locally that would showcase my work, so supporting other local artists is really important to me.
“We have a beautiful space as you enter the studio and wanted to utilise the area. Art is anything creative so the idea of having an emporium which can be a home for various creative types to share their work really inspired me.
“I’ve had this idea since I moved to Pontypool three years ago and I now feel it’s the right time. I want to support crafters who started their business as a way to express themselves and be more mindful.
“The Emporium, which encourages people to ‘shop local’ is a great way to support the artists, their business and to attract more people to Pontypool.”
Twelve-year-old Bobbi Mai from Blaenavon is the youngest artist to have her art featured in the Emporium.
She said: “It has given me the confidence to see that my art work is good enough for others to appreciate.
“It gives me a lovely shop space and platform which enables people to have the opportunity to enjoy my work as much as I do. Even better that it's in a local place, for local people.”
10 percent of Bobbi Mai’s profits will go to The UK Kawasaki Disease Foundation, a charity close to her heart after her little brother was really poorly with Kawasaki disease over Christmas.
Jenny Giles Photography and The Emporium, will be holding a ‘Meet the Maker’ evening and official opening on Tuesday September 25 between 5pm and 8pm.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here