Anyone with an interest in maritime art and antiques will be thrilled to discover a new business preparing to open its doors to the community.
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Even in a partially-unpacked state, upon entering the space on Imlay Street, curiosity is well and truly piqued, with a feast of interesting items to explore, many of which one could imagine being exhibited in a museum.
Having planned to move to Eden over three years ago, Lynda Paterson and Spencer Scott Sandilands finally made it, and are very obviously chuffed to be carrying out their plans.
This new adventure for the couple is the continuation of an antique business founded almost half a century ago.
Previously based in the historic township of Port Albert, in South Gippsland, Victoria, Lynda said the shop space on the main street of Eden was much larger than the one they previously operated.
"This is a lovely big space, it's perfect for what we want and do," Lynda said.
"We were ready for a change and we're coastal people, Spencer is a fisherman and we both like the whole idea of a working port.
"We think this area is a better location for our business and that we will see a lot of interest in our stock," she said.
Spencer has previously run galleries and been a print and map dealer in both Melbourne and Sydney, with 60 years in the industry, maritime art and antiques are his particular area of interest.
A stint living in Argentina also allowed Spencer to export antiques back to Australia, some of which you will be able to see in store.
There is a very diverse range of items to peruse, from maritime instruments, to maps and charts, scrimshaw, paintings, prints, furniture, light fittings, books and ephemera, the mix of items is eclectic and steeped with history.
The sea and estuarine environment feature in almost all of the pieces to be displayed, very fitting items for the coastal community of Eden and those who visit to appreciate and perhaps purchase.
Busily carrying more and more stock into the shop on Monday, they hope to open to the public by the beginning of November.
There are plans to section the back area as a workshop to be used for framing and mounting.
Once that takes place the rest of the space will be painted and fitted out to best display their unique wares, including new lighting.
The pair are keen to get to know their new community better and Lynda said there had already been a lot of interest in their activities.
"Everybody seems really excited," she said.
"It seems to me like there's a lot of change happening in Eden and it's very positive."
Located at 148 Imlay Street, formerly Art on Imlay, Maritime Art and Antiques will be trading seven days per week.
Spencer and Lynda would like to employ up to five people to assist them in the running business and those interested who have relevant experience with framing and antique retail are encouraged to get in touch: contact@maritimeartandantiques.com
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