A new home for beautiful things: The Garden Studio Expands at Lock29

The Garden Studio at Lock29 is thrilled to announce its expansion into a larger unit, further cementing its role as a unique venue for artists and art lovers in Banbury.

This development marks an exciting milestone in Lock29’s journey to provide a richer, more personalised shopping experience while championing local creativity. 
Since initially opening as a pop-up and then becoming a permanent fixture on 1st August 2024, The Garden Studio has quickly become a go-to venue for shoppers seeking original art and thoughtful homeware. The new, larger unit now features an expanded selection of artwork and provides additional space for The Garden Studio’s commissioned artwork services. This next step in its evolution will not only offer customers a wider range of carefully curated pieces but will also offer a more immersive shopping experience. 

 
A standout feature of the expansion is the introduction of a dedicated monthly guest artist programme. By showcasing work from emerging talent, The Garden Studio continues its commitment to fostering creativity and shining a spotlight on local young artists. With a dedicated wall reserved for these artists, it will provide a valuable platform for them to exhibit their work to the public for the first time. 

In addition to the broader selection of artwork, The Garden Studio’s offerings will include striking new features. A central ‘hero’ plinth will display handmade glass bowls in collaboration with a talented glass artist, adding an innovative dimension to the studio. Inspired by a love of nature, The Studio is also offering a carefully curated collection of animal sculptures, which will perfectly complement the studio’s signature animal portraits. Other highlights include an expanded display of limited-edition stone coasters, trivets, bone china mugs and greeting cards, providing even more opportunities for visitors to find unique and meaningful gifts. 

Lee Atherton, the artist behind The Garden Studio, expressed his enthusiasm for this new chapter: 

“The expansion of The Garden Studio is really exciting. The new unit offers me much more scope to show a larger selection of carefully curated art as well as my own pictures. I want the Garden Studio to be 'a home for beautiful things' and support for young local artists, giving them exposure and celebrating local talent. The new space will include my own art and stoneware, a selection of super sculptures, handmade glass bowls, and of course, the Guest Artist walls. The collection will be constantly curated, and new things will appear as the unit evolves. There is a lot of work to do creating the space, but I know it will be worth it, and I can’t wait.” 

The Garden Studio will be offering a preview opening of the new venue on Friday 31st February.  The official opening is planned for Saturday,1st February where visitors will be welcomed from 6pm-8pm for a late special view with drinks to celebrate the move.  

Lock29 remains a favourite destination in Banbury, combining diverse and exciting street food with edgy independent retailers and engaging community events.

The Garden Studio’s larger unit, new collaborations and unique features will offer visitors and art enthusiasts something special, an opportunity to discover local creativity, personalise their own collections and discover new and original giftware. This inspiring, new expansion is yet another example of Lock29’s ongoing dedication to blend creativity and community.