An Interview with The Haslemere Bookshop

Interview with Linnet Bird of Clarendon Fine Art Haslemere "We specialise in original works, limited editions and sculpture from the finest emerging and established contemporary artists, alongside a superb collection of rare, signed editions from 20th century masters including Picasso, Hockney and Warhol. Our services are designed to make art acquisition an uplifting and refreshing experience, and include personal appointments in the gallery or your home, artist commissioning, interest free credit, bespoke insurance, gift list services and many more, including meet the artist & focus events." What were you doing before this business? We are lucky enough to have a small team of four local ladies, (Linnet, Laura, & Pippa), all bringing a wealth of experience from diverse creative sectors, in order to better assist & understand the needs of our clientele. The rich tapestry of the Haslemere team, consists of an Interior designer at the helm, a client development manager from Sotheby’s, and an advertising executive & fine artist. Each member thrives on using their transferable skills to source the perfect pieces for the perfect client. How did you come up with the idea for your business? Clarendon are a huge success story, now the largest gallery group in the world, (falling under the umbrella of Demonfort fine art and encompassing Whitewall galleries). As such we have access to un utterly enviable exclusive portfolio. The origins were a little more humble though, and stemmed from our CEO Helen Swaby having a particularly bad buying experience, at a well known London art Gallery. After her "Pretty Woman" moment, Helen simply thought, there must be a better, more accessible way to by art, without feeling utterly alienated from the moment you walk through the door. In 2010 Clarendon was born and we haven’t looked back since, priding ourselves on making your art journey a thoroughly enjoyable experience. What made you choose Haslemere? Helen was visiting Haslemere, and whilst sat outside a well-known local café, was struck by the beauty of our High Street. With its turrets, timber frames and buildings dating back to the 15th century, making it one of the most picturesque retail destinations in the country, she thought this wonderous place would be and ideal location for a Clarendon’s. We like to think that one year on, we are now a key part of this thriving centre for food and drink, shopping and entertainment, and of course, art and culture. As the town coat of arms states 'Life Springs from the Arts'.