At a time when many independent businesses have been struggling, Polkadot Gallery is a West Country company that is proudly celebrating 20 years of trading this year.
Established in 2001 as Polkadot Art Gallery, the company has grown from its original premises on Exeter’s South Street and now has two galleries, one in Martin’s Lane near the Cathedral, and one in Riverside Place, the heart of Taunton’s bustling Independent Quarter. Proving that adaptability is a key to success, Polkadot’s focus has also evolved, moving from contemporary craft to becoming a leading specialist in contemporary jewellery.
Owner Julia Scruton, who set up Polkadot with her late partner, the photographer Charles Parsons, says, ‘I have had a lifelong passion for contemporary jewellery and we are fortunate in this country to have some incredibly talented makers. So it made absolute sense for me to pursue my dream of running a specialist gallery in the West Country that could showcase the best of these designer makers’.
Polkadot Gallery Director Julia Scruton
Knowledgable and friendly staff - many of whom are makers themselves - ensure that customers receive the very best levels of service. ‘Our motto is ‘Jewellery for Individuals’ explains Julia, ‘and over the years we have built up wonderful relationships with our customers. One of the great privileges is helping our customers choose a special piece of jewellery for important moments in their lives - be that engagement, wedding or anniversary, significant birthdays, graduation and new arrivals.’
Fern wearing Margoni's Quartz ring and Citrine and Pearl Earrings, with a Pearl Ring by James Newman
No successful business can rest on its laurels, and a recent development at Polkadot has been a new website, enabling customers from further afield to benefit from Julia’s expertly curated selection of jewellery. ‘The website came into its own during the lockdowns’, notes Julia, ‘we were able to make sure that customers near and far still received their jewellery orders.’
To celebrate two decades of trading in the heart of the West Country, Polkadot Gallery is offering a £10 discount to new customers when they sign up for the online newsletter at www.polkadotgallery.com.
Claire Lowe wearing her own design: the Silver Leafy Hoop Earrings
Blog credit credits:
Models: Fern Després and Claire Lowe
Text: Abigail Ballinger
Photography: Rosemary Després Photography
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