Oink Gallery, founded by creative director Mark Pepperall, has spent the past decade bringing contemporary art to Old Town, hosting solo exhibitions by both local and international artists and becoming a familiar part of the area’s independent business scene.
Rather than disappearing altogether, Oink will continue as an online gallery, alongside occasional pop up exhibitions featuring its established roster of artists, while Mark turns his attention to a new venture in Painswick, Gloucestershire.
The new gallery, Place(d) Contemporary, is located in the village often referred to as the “Queen of the Cotswolds”. It combines contemporary art with interior design, showcasing original paintings alongside carefully selected furniture and home interiors. The space will also become the front of house for Pepper & Co, Mark’s sister interior design business.
Mark describes the move as the natural evolution of both businesses. He said:
“We’ve had 10 amazing years in Old Town Swindon, putting on multiple solo exhibitions with local and international artists. We’ve loved being part of the community and have gained some amazing customers along the way.
“Oink Gallery isn’t disappearing. We’ll continue online and will still be hosting pop up exhibitions with our incredible collection of artists from time to time.
“Place(d) Contemporary is really an evolution of both Oink and Pepper & Co, and we can’t wait to continue doing what we love in a new space.”
Beyond exhibiting artwork, Oink Gallery has left a lasting mark on Old Town itself. Mark has worked closely with the Old Town Business Association over the years, helping develop the area’s branding, designing its Christmas lights and supporting community events.
The gallery has also been responsible for commissioning and bringing several well known pieces of public art to the area, including Penfold’s popular SwinDog, Mul Draws’ mural on Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, and artwork by Donk London near Food Magpie.
The move comes during a period of significant change for Old Town. While some long established businesses are evolving or relocating, others are investing in the area. Food Magpie has recently expanded its offer through a collaboration with neighbouring Magnum Wine Shop to create a new evening wine bar, while work continues on the ambitious redevelopment of Apsley House, which is expected to become a major new destination featuring hospitality, heritage and creative spaces once complete.
The combination of new openings, major investment and changing business models reflects how Old Town continues to evolve, with independent businesses adapting to changing customer habits while retaining the area’s distinctive identity.
Before leaving its Victoria Road premises, Oink Gallery is holding a closing sale throughout August, giving customers the opportunity to purchase original artwork before the gallery completes its transition online.
Customers can continue to follow Oink Gallery online, while updates on the new venture can be found through Place(d) Contemporary’s social media channels.
