A NEW contemporary art gallery has opened its doors in Grays.

The Ron Contemporary gallery is run out of part of John Gathercole’s house, which he has sectioned off, in Victoria Avenue.

It features three independent rooms, two gallery spaces and a shop and commercial room, selling quirky crafts.

The opening night was last Thursday and featured an exhibition of work by talented local artists.

John said: “The inaugural exhibition focuses on local home grown up coming talent.

“The show takes its title from the association of being born, brought up or living in the local environment.

“It also refers to ‘thoroughbred’, an animal of pure breed, people who are pure bred artist.

“The exhibition brings together a collection of the best up and coming contemporary artists and craft persons emerging from an ever increasing movement that’s developing and coming out of Thurrock.”

John said a new arts scene is taking shape in the borough.

He added: “The creative interest in the area has accelerated and had a huge boost with the likes of the Royal Opera House, National Skills Academy and Acme Studios opening establishments in Thurrock.”

All the areas at the gallery are available to hire from £40 to £80 a week, depending on requirements and availability.

There will be a 20 per cent commission on gallery sales and a 10 per cent commission on shop sales.

The gallery, located at 95 Victoria Avenue, is open from 10am to 6pm Thursday to Sunday, and at any other time by appointment.

For more information, go online to http://roncontemporary.webs.com/, or call John on 07813 499964.

You can also e-mail johngathercole artist@yahoo.co.uk