August 10, 2011 5.16 pm This story is over 151 months old

New Lincoln gallery keeps art in the family

Family business: A Web-based Lincoln art shop is opening a gallery in the city to attract more local buyers.
Family portrait: John, Trisha and Mark Cotton

Art to love, a Web-based art supplier, is opening a store on Lincoln on Friday, August 12. All the work has been done by family and friends, and the gallery has taken two months to refit and organise.

The family run store, which is located on the 396 High Street, will supply a range of paintings including limited edition and originals, some of which are affordable, while others cost thousands.

The website was set up with the concept of selling pieces of art that the owners loved, instead of the traditional portraits of flowers and landscapes.

The store is owned by John Cotton, who also runs a cycling business, and his wife Trisha. The two met while ballroom dancing and were drawn into the art world by a painting which featured a couple doing the same.

Owner’s choice: Mark’s favourite piece entitled ‘Hidden’

Small beginnings

John Cotton, co-owner of Art to love, said: “Art has really been a passion of mine only in recent years. Since my wife and I saw the painting, we have been collecting ever since.

“My son, Mark, created the website in February 2010 and the store will be a way of expanding what we have already created there.”

Since the website has been created, the family have seen a number of orders from customers but little demand from their hometown of Lincoln.

Mark Cotton, co-owner of Art to love, said: “We are hoping that this store will invite people in from outside. It is hard when you just sell online because it’s difficult for people to stumble across you.

“Seeing a painting online bares no comparison on seeing it in the flesh. Although the store is small, everyone has to start somewhere and I think we have done a great job with it.”

Room with a view: A glimpse into the back room which houses a number of paintings

Local calling

Art to love will be hosting promotion for local artists and have already been contacted by a number of Lincoln based painters. An opening party will be held on Friday, August 12, to celebrate the new gallery and all are invited to attend the event.

The gallery will be open 9.30am to 5pm every day, except Tuesdays and Sundays.