Former Darlington Art Shop framer opens home studio

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

Among those finishing that day was professional framer Richard Elwell, who had spent 30 years framing artworks for customers across the town.

The 58-year-old said the closure came as “a bit of a shock” as the news came just days after he was rushed to hospital fighting for his life with a ruptured appendix.

Richard Elwell (Image: Richard Elwell)

He said: “It all came as a bit of a shock. I’d been framing there for nearly 31 years and we were always busy. It was a such a good place to work.

“It was quite a traumatic time for me though, as I was seriously ill in hospital for ten days with a burst appendix. While I was recuperating, I found out we were closing. I didn’t know what I was going to do.

“But I’m lucky to be here.”

After taking the time to consider his options, rather than stepping away from the trade completely, Richard decided to continue working independently.

Richard went on to establish Mowden Art Framing Services, a home-based studio in Mowden, where he has been trading locally since last year.

The 58-year-old said: “At first, I wasn’t sure whether I could actually do framing from home, but then I thought, this is what I do and what I love doing.

Richard’s framing work. (Image: RICHARD ELWELL)

“I need to be creative, and I still enjoy helping people get the best out of the pieces they care about.”

Richard’s business offers bespoke framing for a wide range of items, including artworks, photographs, needlework, football shirts, medals, box frames and reglazing.

The framer estimates he has completed tens of thousands of frames in his career, ranging from traditional windows to framing a picture of a “burnt garlic bread.”

Richard went on to establish Mowden Art Framing Services. (Image: RICHARD ELWELL)

Richard said what he misses most about working in the shop is the certainty and the routine.

He said: “I miss the routine of going into the shop everyday and seeing my colleagues and our regular customers.

“I knew Ian was 70 and the shop wasn’t going to last forever, but so many people have said it’s been such a big loss for the town.

The Art Shop on Bondgate, Darlington (Image: THE NORTHERN ECHO)

“My main aim now is just trying to make a wage. I’m not looking to get rich, but if I can support myself doing what I love and what I’m good at, that’s the main thing.”

The framer added: “It is different working on your own. I lost all my customer database when the shop closed, and not being in town makes it harder.

“Some people are managing to find me, but it’s really just about getting my name out there again.”

Mowden Art Framing Services can be contacted on 07565 361934 or by email at mountscut@outlook.com