Welcome , if you're new to my blog and are joining me from the Instagram challenge #MYSHOPLIFE ( hosted by @Pencilmeinshop ) I'm glad to have you here for a little insight in to my small creative business!
A Dream by the Sea
If you’ve ever dreamed of running your own creative business by the sea, welcome to a little peek behind the scenes at our gallery in Cullercoats. From family life and artistic passion to community involvement and small business realities – here’s what it’s really like to be an independent shopkeeper and full-time artist.
A Family Business from Studio to Shop Floor
Just 100 metres from the seafront, our pale blue gallery is a light-filled space where you’ll find my original paintings, prints, gifts and more – all created and designed by me, Joanne Wishart. Every product is inspired by my love of the North East coast and countryside and made right here in the UK.
My husband Ross and I run the gallery together – with help from our teenage sons who chip in between their studies. It’s very much a family business, and between us we manage everything: from serving customers in the shop to fulfilling online orders, packaging frames, dealing with admin, and trying to find time for me to actually paint!
Step Inside the Creative Process
My working studio is right at the back of the gallery – and that’s where all the creative magic happens. From painting large canvases to heat-pressing bookmarks and hand making lampshades, everything starts here. So when you visit, you’re not just stepping into a shop – you’re stepping into the creative process itself.
The Ups and Downs of Shopkeeper Life
Running an independent gallery has its highs and lows. Some days are full of buzz and footfall, while others are quieter – and every sale really does count. Like many small businesses, we have overheads, running costs, and a lot of heart poured into everything we do. But we wouldn’t change it for the world.
A Warm, Welcoming Gallery Space
Our mission has always been to make the gallery feel welcoming – a calm, friendly place where you can take your time, browse freely, and feel right at home. I want every customer to feel like a friend, whether they’re buying a greetings card or a large original painting.
Affordable Art & Coastal-Inspired Gifts
You’ll find a curated selection of gifts here too – from fine bone china mugs to ceramic decorations, lampshades, and tea towels. These are perfect for those who want to take home a little piece of the coast without breaking the bank. Art should be accessible, and we have something for every budget.
Proud to Be Part of the Cullercoats Community
And of course, we love our local community! We proudly design the Cullercoats RNLI’s Christmas card each year and sponsor the Cullercoats Community Advent Trail, bringing festive cheer to our window displays every December.
Why We Wouldn’t Change a Thing
Being a creative shopkeeper is hard work, but it’s also full of joy. We get to meet incredible people, hear the stories behind their purchases, and see how my art connects with their lives. That’s the part that means the most to us.
Thank you for supporting our gallery and being part of our creative journey. You can visit us at 6 St George's Road, Cullercoats, Tyne and Wear. NE30 3JY
or shop online at www.joannewishart.co.uk
With love from the coast,
Joanne & Ross
