What d’you know but a key to one of Albert Drive Studio’s galleries broke in the keyhole of the locked door just as we were about to open last Saturday. Panic calls to a number of locksmiths brought one John O’Rourke to the Studios who not only sorted the problem in jig time but was interested in photography and browsed the exhibition. Caledonian Locksmiths recommended John and so would we.
I was ridiculously chuffed when a retired couple of ironmongers turned up, enjoyed the exhibition and had time to talk about their life and times. Another visitor had worked for George Boyd’s in Glasgow which led me to contact the company and receive an invitation to go to look at some of their memorabilia. I’ve seen several visitors grin with recognition as they see a familiar face or shop – Val at Bill’s Tools Store, The Scotstoun Emporium, Amy in Balfron or MacKays in Tarbert. And someone yet to visit the exhibition sent me an academic paper on ‘Scotswomen as Housepainters and Decorators from 1820′, and included records showing women as Ironmongers during that period, from a Jane McDowell in Stranraer to Mary Duffas in Aberdeen. I feel a wee feminist angle entering the pages of the book.
So as well as enjoying the exhibition, you’re likely to enjoy the company you meet at Albert Drive Studios. Its your last chance to visit this weekend, Saturday 28th and Sunday 29th August. Don’t miss it. We’ll be open from 10.00am – 4.00pm and the kettle will be on.
