A very communal Christmas

Liz Hackney and Paul Clark of Atishoo Gallery gear up for their 15th Christmas in Charlestown.

Each year, Liz Hackney and Paul Clark keep the local community in mind, and past years have seen the gallery hold Christmas exhibitions in aid of local charities. They also sell packs of Christmas cards on behalf of the local hospice, helping raise much-needed funds. This year, local residents have joined forces to raise funds for some special Christmas lights in the village, and all the businesses have been invited to open on the evening of Saturday 2nd December for the grand Christmas lights switch on, when there’ll be music and singing at various spots around the village. Atishoo Gallery will of course also be open until 8pm, offering special deals on some of its fantastic products.

“This really is a great chance for the village to join together and get into the festive spirit, while picking up some lovely gifts for their loved ones.”

This really is a great chance for the village to join together and get into the festive spirit, while picking up some lovely gifts for their loved ones. The best part is that it’s open to all, so why not pop along? Atishoo has a lovely collection of original paintings and prints by local artists, including those from husband and wife David and Stephanie Axtell.There’s also a great selection of homewares, stationery, pottery and glassware. Liz says: “We think our ‘Believe Me, Vino’ and “Trust Me, Gin” magnets, coasters and aprons will be great sellers this year.”

By far the most popular pottery pieces at Atishoo are the gorgeous hand-thrown mugs, jugs and bowls by Mevagissey potter Philip Gardiner, of which you’ll find a selection available online. For jewellery, you can’t beat the stunning lamp-work glass made by award-winning glass artist Julie Fountain, who melts and shapes Italian glass rods, finishing them with artisan glass details and fine silver highlights. The gallery also has a bespoke framing service, available in the onsite studio. Indeed, Liz and Paul can frame anything from photos, prints and artwork, to sports shirts, medals and memorabilia, meaning you can add an extra personal touch to those already-personal gifts.

The gallery will be open from Monday to Saturday, right up until lunchtime on Christmas Eve. Liz says: “By 2pm on Christmas Eve, we’ll be in the pub with a pint and a bowl of cheesy chips, something that’s become a family tradition and a sign to us that our Christmas has begun!” The gallery closes between Christmas and New Year, but you can join the family on Boxing Day as they watch the eagerly-anticipated Boxing Day swim unfold.