Castle Galleries celebrates 20 years of fine art
Castle Galleries, the UK’s leading art retailer, will celebrate 20 years of delivering style, creativity and quality to its clients on Saturday 10th October 2015.
The anniversary marks two decades in fine art for the company which has seen its sales nearly double over the last five years as demand for its product continues to grow. Since its launch in 1995, Castle Galleries has grown from one outlet in Stratford-upon-Avon to a nationwide network of 34 galleries with avid collectors all over the world.
To celebrate, Castle Fine Art, Exeter, on Cathedral Yard – part of the Castle Galleries brand – is offering a free limited edition print with every purchase made over £250 during the anniversary weekend (10th-11th October 2015) while stocks last, and will be holding special events in store.
During its 20 year history Castle Galleries has succeeded in making fine art more accessible, bringing the art world’s contemporary talents to the high street – today names including Bob Dylan, Ronnie Wood and Stuart McAlpine Miller work with Castle Galleries.
Castle Galleries is also dedicated to cultivating the next generation – as part of its anniversary celebrations it will be introducing three new names to its portfolio of artists. Works from abstract figurative artist Carly Ashdown, 36, fashion illustrator Laura Tinald, 30, and low brow pop surrealist artist Robert Oxley, 43, will be featured across is nationwide galleries.
Ian Weatherby-Blythe, Managing Director of Castle Galleries, who started the business aged 27, reflects on the brand’s beginnings: “Before Castle Galleries opened, I felt there was nowhere that ordinary people could get access to great, affordable art. So I decided to open an art gallery that I personally would feel comfortable buying art from.
“For the past 20 years Castle Galleries has consistently succeeded in breaking down barriers– I am extremely proud that we have played a pivotal role in making great art much more accessible. We have worked hard to make our galleries approachable and friendly in every way possible – from our welcoming staff to our relaxing gallery interiors.”
Ian will making a personal appearance at the Exeter gallery on Sunday 11th October 2015 at 12.45pm as part of his anniversary challenge; to visit Castle’s 34 galleries in just six days, travelling over 1,500 miles, to three countries and 20 English counties.
Selina Cassidy, Gallery Manager for Castle Fine Art, Exeter, said:
“Castle Galleries is a national brand with a local delivery structure. Every gallery has a unique feel and character – our gallery has been a major contributor to the city’s diverse arts scene for many years and will continue to be so moving forward.
“Trends show that the demand for fine art is on the rise with the global art market reaching its highest ever-recorded level in 2014[1]. Castle Galleries also enjoyed strong sales last year – something we hope to continue in our anniversary year.”
20 years in the business sees Castle Galleries go from strength to strength as it looks to open its 35th store in Birmingham’s premiere lifestyle and shopping destination, The Mailbox, later this year.
It also marks the beginning of the company’s rebrand to Castle Fine Art, which will see all its galleries refurbished and upgraded.
Ian explains: “When Castle Galleries first opened it was mainly a print based business, but now we’re seeing an increased desire for original works and sculptures as well as limited editions – one of many developments that has occurred during our history as a business. We feel the name ‘Castle Fine Art’ reflects our high quality product, and who we are today as a brand.”
For more information please visit Castle Fine Art, Exeter, 18 Cathedral Yard, EX1 1HB or see: www.castlegalleries.com
