The Art Shop Bondgate Darlington set to close on June 28

The beloved independent store, located on Bondgate, will close at 4pm on Saturday, June 28, as owners Ian and Lynda Hughes step into retirement after running the business since 1988.

A clearance sale with 40 per cent off all stock is underway, covering everything from paint and pencils to clay, easels, and greeting cards.

The Art Shop on Bondgate, Darlington (Image: NORTHERN ECHO) Founded in 1955 by Arthur Hughes in Northgate, The Art Shop was born out of a love for creativity and the desire to serve the town’s artistic community.

It moved to Duke Street in 1963 before settling into its current Bondgate location in 1988.

The business — now operated by Arthur’s son Ian and his wife Lynda — has expanded over the years to occupy three adjoining shopfronts, a growth that inspired the company’s name, Tri-Art.

The Art Shop on Bondgate, Darlington (Image: NORTHERN ECHO) The shop has long offered more than just products; it has created a destination, a place where customers receive a ‘made to measure’ shopping experience with expert advice and warm, personal service.

It quickly became one of the North East’s leading art stores, serving everyone from professional painters and crafters to beginners and school children.

In addition to specialist supplies, the shop also became known for its renowned card and gift selection and bespoke framing service.

A sign on the door of the shop (Image: NORTHERN ECHO) “Our trained staff know how to help customers. It’s one of the reasons why the shop has flourished over the years,” Ian Hughes noted in a previous interview with The Northern Echo.

Following the announcement of the closure, there has been an outpouring of emotion from customers, former staff, and the wider community.

Many have taken to social media to share memories and send their best wishes.

Richard Baker, who worked alongside Ian on town centre management projects, called it the “end of an era,” adding: “The Art Shop has been one of the anchor independents in Darlington for decades. It will be greatly missed.”

The Art Shop, in Darlington, celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2013. From left, owner Ian Hughes, Mayoress Carol Johnson, Tom Hughes, Mayor Charles Johnson, Lynda Hughes and Emma Hughes (Image: NORTHERN ECHO) Former staff also joined the chorus of support. Louise A Maddison, who worked at the shop for seven years, said: “It was a privilege to work for you. I learned so much. You’ll be a huge loss to the town.”

Helen Lambert reflected on the store’s personal touch: “You’ve framed so many special moments for us and were always just so lovely and helpful. Wishing you all the best for a well-earned retirement.”

Pamela Walker described it as “one of the few independent shops that sells quality materials and where staff give informed, helpful information.”

The Art Shop has long catered to a broad audience — from specialist artists, model makers and hobbyists to the youngest beginners.

A customer taking items from the shop (Image: NORTHERN ECHO) Its reputation extended beyond Darlington, with regular visitors from across the region.

Resident Lisa-Marie Clark wrote: “I always went there every weekend. I’m pretty sure most of my studio supplies today came from your shop. So sad to see another landmark gone.”

During its 25th anniversary in Bondgate in 2013, the store celebrated with in-store artist demos, refreshments, and support from Darlington Mayor Charles Johnson.

Ian Hughes said at the time, “Darlington is a very good place to trade. People come back because they know we recognise and appreciate them.”

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A winding-down sale began on Thursday (June 12), offering 40 per cent off all stock, including paint, paper, brushes, canvas, pens, craft kits, and more.

Framing services have ceased, and customers holding gift vouchers are urged to redeem them before June 28.

In their farewell statement, the Hughes family thanked customers for their support and patience, stating: “We have an unusual time ahead, and we hope to see you soon.”