Interview with Aimie Freeston, owner and curator of The Brownston Gallery
Aimie Freeston is the owner and curator of The Brownston Gallery, one of the South West’s leading contemporary fine art galleries. Located in the heart of Modbury, an historic town nestled between the coast and Dartmoor in the South Hams, the gallery represents an impressive portfolio of local and nationally acclaimed artists, sculptors and designers.
With a dynamic year-round programme of exhibitions, artist talks and creative workshops, The Brownston Gallery has established itself as a vibrant destination for collectors and art enthusiasts alike.
What is your career background?
At University I studied Anthropology and Theology which was fascinating but after leaving I ended up going a different route teaching English as a Foreign Language. Although not quite what I had originally intended to do, it was a great job not least because it gave me the opportunity to travel while working.
Then, when I got married my husband and I ended up living and working in California for a few years. During that time I ran a Pilates Studio and also worked for the Fine Art Company running their online art gallery.
What inspired you to run a gallery?
While I valued and enjoyed my experience working for an online gallery, I became increasingly aware that it could never replicate the experience of engaging with art in a physical space, where you can truly immerse yourself and connect with the work.
I’ve always been a creative person, and I had wanted to try my hand at curating, from discovering artists to putting exhibitions and bringing a cohesive vision to life.
I also knew that running a gallery would offer wonderful variety and the opportunity to meet and interact with different people every day. As a natural “people person”, that human connection was something that really appealed to me.
What is your USP?
Without doubt it has to be Lhasa, my beautiful and very friendly labradoodle. She is definitely my “wingman” and is fantastic at breaking the ice when visitors come to the gallery. Everyone seems to loves her – young and old.
How do you spread the word about the gallery?
We take a multi-layered approach to spreading the word about the gallery. Social media and regular email newsletters allow us to stay connected with our audience, while our programme of solo and mixed exhibitions, alongside artist talks and workshops, creates meaningful opportunities for people to engage with us in person.
PR has also proven invaluable in extending our reach, both locally and nationally — whether through artist interviews, magazine features or online editorial coverage.
In addition, carefully selected advertising in print and digital publications helps us reach new audiences and continue to grow the gallery’s profile.
What’s your proudest moment so far?
Without doubt, my proudest moment so far was taking my daughter, who has just begun a Foundation Diploma in Art at the Arts University Plymouth, to exhibit with me at Fresh: Art Fair in London.
The fair was incredibly busy and it was very special to see her fully immersed; helping to hang the paintings, engaging with visitors and sharing in the energy of it all. Watching her step so confidently into that environment and experiencing it together, made it an unforgettable few days.
Why is work so important?
I like to have purpose and structure in my life and work provides both. Running the gallery is wonderfully varied with no day ever being the same – there is certainly no danger of being bored or having nothing to do. I feel very fortunate that I can spend my working days in a beautiful space, surrounded by beautiful artwork in the centre of a vibrant and friendly community.
Who inspires you?
I am inspired by Barbara Hepworth. I have always admired her sculptures and equally her ability to remain focused and prolific while raising a young family at a time when the art world was totally male-dominated. Her determination, creativity and resilience are a real source of inspiration for me.
What are your three top pieces of advice for anyone wanting to do something similar?
- Do something you are passionate about and know you will enjoy.
- Give yourself regular breaks. It is really important to have time to recharge otherwise you could find yourself in a state of overwhelm.
- Try not to compare what you are doing to others doing the same thing and make sure you give yourself a pat on the back when good things happen.
Find out more about The Brownston Gallery.
