Alveston Ten Years Exhibition

Alveston Gallery marks its tenth anniversary with an exhibition that reflects on a decade dedicated to championing contemporary art and nurturing the careers of artists. From its beginnings in an antiques arcade to its established presence on Westbourne Grove, the gallery has built a programme defined by close collaboration, artistic ambition and a commitment to emerging talent.

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Founded by Fergus Downey, Alveston grew out of his antiques business in the basement of the Admiral Vernon arcade, just off Portobello Road Market. Its story began with British ceramicists Vicky Lindo and Bill Brookes, whose distinctive sgraffito work occupied a single display cabinet among the antiques. What began as an opportunity for rising artists has since developed into a full-fledged contemporary gallery, connecting artists with international collectors, art fairs and museum audiences. In 2020, amid considerable uncertainty, Fergus opened the gallery’s Westbourne Grove shopfront, creating a dedicated space for a growing roster of artists.

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Artists working across contemporary ceramics, painting and sculpture have shaped the gallery's identity. From the early success of Lindo and Brookes to the practices of Freya Pocklington, Dan Hollings, Simon Kidd, Matt Chambers, Orlanda Broom, Susan Nemeth, Teddy Hansen, and many more, Alveston’s programme embodies a belief in the importance of individual artistic vision and the significance of sustained, collaborative relationships, consistently uniting emerging voices with established names.

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For Alveston, ten years represents more than a commercial milestone. Many artists first joined the gallery after graduating, developing their practices alongside a gallery team committed to advancing their work and careers. One artist's success has often created opportunities for another, making for a collective art gallery approach that places relationships, trust, and shared ambition at its heart. In the face of a new wave of global challenges, Alveston remains optimistic. The gallery team continues to seek new talent while reinforcing its commitment to the artists who have helped define its first decade. As it looks ahead to the next chapter, it will adhere to the founding principle of providing exceptional artists with the support, visibility, and opportunities necessary to realise their potential.

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Join us at the gallery for celebratory drinks on Thursday, 19th November, 6pm-9pm to celebrate the opening of the exhibition. The show includes new work by familiar artists, some of whom have returned especially for the occasion. All work for the exhibition will be available this page from 6 p.m. GMT on 18 November.