Billed as ‘stunning’, a new art gallery has opened in Castle Douglas, Dumfriesshire, featuring art, sculpture, and all manner of collectible crafts and antiques, in a former bank building in the town. The Artist @ Burford Antiques‘ founders Kirsty and Jason Burford will host rolling exhibitions, promising to show an eclectic mix of works, and in July the gallery will exhibit a solo show by Gerard Burns, whose ‘Rowan Tree’ painting hung behind the former First Minister’s desk; Burns has painted several famous faces including Alex Salmond, Denise Mina, Billy Connolly, Margo Macdonald, and Ewan McGregor.

While Burford Antiques originated in 1982 as a family-run business in adjacent premises, it’s hoped that the addition of the Gallery will further boost Castle Douglas’ high street, which boasts a uncommonly large proportion of independent shops.

Commenting on the refurbishment, Jason Burford said, ‘It’s been a lot of work to renovate the new building, however it has been worthwhile – everyone has been raving about how light and spacious the gallery is and cannot believe the transformation. We feel very lucky to be so well supported by our customers and the people of the area’.