Maldon's new art gallery is full of colour, life and charm

The Gallery, in the High Street, features an array of paintings, prints and sculptures on display.

The site, which opened in September, was the new dream of accomplished artist Joanna Milne, who both owns and exhibits in The Gallery.

Joanne, 52, spent ten months revamping the historic building after it sat empty for about two years. 

Revamp - Joanna has breathed new life into the historic building (Image: Newsquest) Jo worked hard to preserve the Grade II building’s classic charm and antique character, with the building dating back to the early 17th century.

Upon entering, visitors are greeted with gorgeous wooden beams which run from floor to ceiling and wall to wall.

Wide windows fill the space with light, while crisp white paint reflects the warm lighting and allows the colours of the stunning artwork to pop.

Warm - The Gallery is a welcoming environment with lots of wood and relaxing tones (Image: Newsquest) Jo said: “There’s nothing else like this in Maldon now - there was a gallery on the corner which closed.

“It’s gone so well, and we’ve had such lovely conversations with people and lovely feedback.

“I feel like I’ve created a community around my gallery.”

The opening of the gallery was a glittering success, with Jo’s son Callum DJing, sparkling drinks and fizzing conversation.

Artist - Joanna exhibits her work in the Gallery and enjoys working with other artists (Image: Newsquest) Jo said: “There are a lot of people who saw the renovations taking place who are coming in, or who don’t know that we’re here and stumble upon us.

“I wanted it to feel like people just step in someone’s home, so it feels really homely.

“I love being surrounded by all the art that I’ve chosen and I love working with the other artists, I get more excited.

“It feels like Christmas when they send me their paintings and I get it out on the wall.”

Variety - The Gallery exhibits a diverse range of work from many artists (Image: Newsquest) Joanna enjoys championing artists from in and around Maldon in her gallery.

Artists shown include graffiti pop artist BRT, Louise Craigie and her colourful lines, and Paul Treasure, whose work is known for its vibrant depth which captures the essence of nature.

Jo said: “It’s very personal to me that I resonate with the art, as I’m sat here surrounded by it. It’s really calming and lovely.

“I curated it all, and there is something in each piece.”

Jo's own acrylic paintings are also featured.

Eye-catching - Joanna's work (centre) receives many compliments (Image: Newsquest) She said: “My art is more led by my emotions, and so it is more of a process.

“I had some things happen in my life, and I started drawing on my feelings – I felt anger, loss, all these different things.

“I just noticed I was more drawn to do a complete abstract work, and it was such a release for me, it felt like therapy.”

Joanna returned to her love of art during the pandemic, when she had time and space to paint at home after years of working in the corporate world.

Makers - There are ceramics and sculptures spread throughout the space (Image: Newsquest) She said: “There was a lot of fear in me at that time, and I didn’t know what to call myself.

“But because I wasn’t at work, I wasn’t distracted, so I literally went into my spare room and just started painting.

“I decided I’d really love to curate and have other artists’ work.

“And now, here we are, and we have all this incredible art."

Joanna hosts ‘Sparkling Saturdays’ at her gallery, where guests can enjoy a glass of prosecco as they admire the art and learn about the artists.

Inspiring - Joanna is enjoys conversations with visitors about the art (Image: Newsquest) This evening, The Gallery will be staying open late for the Light Up Maldon Christmas event and offering mulled wine to visitors.

It is also now a member of Own Art, a scheme funded by Arts Council England which makes contemporary artwork accessible to everyone with an interest-free credit plan.

The Gallery offers the membership in person, over email, and will soon offer it on its website.

Joanna also hopes to one day work with the local primary schools in the area and showcase children’s work, so they can “feel special” and inspired.

She said: “It’s so cosy here, especially in the winter.

“We’ll have our Christmas tree up and some decorations.

“Just come in, have a chat, and explore.”

For more information, visit: thegallerymaldon.com.