Cornwall LivingIssue #87
A wellspring of beauty
For art, collectables and a whole treasure trove of distinctive, artisan items, discover The Old Workshop in Charlestown.
Not far from the old market town of St Austell, the unique village of Charlestown is part of the Cornwall Mining Landscape World Heritage Site. Originally a pilchard fishing hamlet, in the late 18th century, it became a port associated with the local china clay industry.
“…explores the Cornish heritage about which she is deeply passionate”
Tucked in next to the main Charlestown car park you’ll find a browser’s paradise. The Old Workshop is a fascinating collection of shops housed in a listed building, originally a gun store!
Sail Loft Emporium, known for its variety of antiques, collectables, vintage and retro items, is at the top of the steps. Among the current stalls and cabinets you’ll find Rose Mitchell’s retro telephones and cameras, Alan Nankervis’ classic model car collection, and Paul Thomas’ militaria, plus an immense range of jewellery, metal ware, glass, china and all manner of other collectables.
Just inside the Old Workshop entrance gate, The Craft Kiln showcases the work of local crafters, including Jimagination Creations, who produce laser-cut and engraved wood ware in the form of jewellery boxes, key rings, notebook covers and much more. Among other traders here is Daniel O’Connell, who sculpts coastal creatures and seasonal pieces from wire, as well as Blue Freedom, who make unusual fused glass pictures.
Photographer Mick Blakey’s atmospheric prints can be found adorning the walls of Cscape Art, the gallery that Mick shares with his artist wife. Sarah’s distinctive style portrays local working scenes and explores the Cornish heritage about which she is deeply passionate. Mick’s prints and cards show a varied depiction of the county’s most beautiful scenery, using techniques such as slow exposures, panoramic formats and monochrome.
The Old Workshop is open every day from April until October, between 10.30am and 5.30pm. To find out more about this wonderful, historic building at the heart of Charlestown, the treasures held within, and the winter opening hours, be sure to visit the website.
THE OLD WORKSHOP
01726 66639
"...explores the Cornish heritage about which she is deeply passionate"
