For 15 years, No Naked Walls has been helping people discover the joy of original art. This much-loved independent gallery on Bramley High Street has grown into a destination for anyone looking for something a little different for their home – from striking contemporary paintings and sculpture to beautifully observed landscapes, seascapes and still lifes.
Sharon Withers ‘Dawn Bluebells’ £3,950 Oil 152cmx99cm
John Connolly’s ‘Autumn Colour’ £2,200 80x100cm acrylic
Paul Fearn’s ‘Clear Shallow Waters’ £3750. A 100cm x 80cm copper painting
At the heart of it all is owner Sharon Withers, whose passion for art began long before No Naked Walls. With a degree from the renowned Slade School of Fine Art and more than 25 years’ experience in gallery management, Sharon brings both an artist’s eye and a wealth of experience to the gallery’s collection. Every piece is carefully considered, with Sharon personally selecting work for its quality, individuality and artistic merit.
Sharon began her No Naked Walls journey in 2011, opening the first gallery in Chertsey. In 2013, she opened a much larger space in Bramley, which eventually became the gallery’s sole location. Fifteen years on, that same independent spirit remains at the heart of No Naked Walls. The collection now encompasses more than 60 artists, with an ever-changing mix of established and emerging talent.
The No Naked Walls weam with artist Shen Ming Cun
For Sharon, however, it has never simply been about filling a gallery with art. It is about finding work that makes people stop, look again and, perhaps, imagine it hanging in their own home. Her own experience as an artist has given her a particularly instinctive understanding of colour, scale, composition and the way a painting can transform a room.
Shen Ming Cun’s ‘Beautifully dressed Miao Tribe’ 85 x 60cm Oil
“We want people to feel comfortable when they come into the gallery,” says Sharon. “Whether you know a lot about art or are buying your first painting, choosing something for your home should be an enjoyable experience.”
An exhibition opening at No Naked Walls Gallery
That welcoming approach is one of the things that has helped No Naked Walls become a firm favourite with local art lovers. Visitors are encouraged to browse at their leisure, with the experienced team always happy to offer advice and help find something that works with an individual’s taste, home and budget. However, the gallery’s appeal extends well beyond Surrey, with its presence at prestigious London art fairs, including Affordable Art Fair and Fresh, helping No Naked Walls build an International following. The gallery also offers personal consultations and a seven-day Home Approval service, making it easier to live with a piece before making a final decision.
Celia Wilkinson’s ‘Full Swing’ £4000 in acrylic. 106 x 106cm
Emma Jean Kemp’s ‘To&Fro’ bronze bookends £2600.
Emma Forrester ‘Blue Jay Pair’ £595 30x30cm mixed media
Celebrating 15 years
To mark this special milestone, No Naked Walls is bringing together a celebratory exhibition showcasing the breadth and variety that has become synonymous with the gallery. It is an opportunity to discover new work, revisit some familiar favourites and perhaps find a piece that could become a lasting part of your own home.
The timing also makes the exhibition particularly appealing for Christmas shopping. Original art makes a wonderfully personal gift – something chosen with the recipient in mind rather than simply picked from a shelf – and the gallery’s wide variety of styles, sizes and price points means there is plenty to discover.
And for those who would rather give the gift of choice, No Naked Walls also offers art gift vouchers, while No Naked Walls Workshop vouchers make a creative alternative for anyone who would enjoy spending time exploring their own artistic side.
Come and celebrate
The 15th anniversary celebrations begin with a special Private View on Thursday 19 November, offering guests the chance to be among the first to see the exhibition, enjoy a relaxed evening at the gallery and raise a glass to 15 years of No Naked Walls.
The celebrations then continue on Saturday 21 November with a special anniversary Open Day. Alongside the exhibition, there will be artist demonstrations and family-friendly festive activities, making it a great opportunity to come along, see artists at work, soak up some Christmas atmosphere and start thinking about those special gifts.There will be special discounted offers available throughout the celebrations so make sure you keep an eye on the website and social media!
Whether you have been visiting No Naked Walls for years or have never stepped through the door, the 15th anniversary is the perfect excuse to discover what is on the walls.
After 15 years, Sharon’s enthusiasm for finding exceptional art shows no sign of slowing down. And with the gallery continuing to seek out new artists and new work, there is always something fresh to discover.
No Naked Walls Painting Workshop
15th Anniversary Exhibition
Private View:
Thursday 19 November
Anniversary Open Day:
Saturday 21 November – artist demonstrations and family-friendly festive activities.
For more information, visit No Naked Walls Gallery in Bramley or browse the collection online.
No Naked Walls Gallery are at 24 High Street, Bramley, Surrey GU5 0HB
Tel: 01483 894466. info@nonakedwalls.co.uk
This article also appears in the autumn edition of Premier Magazine
