It all begins with an idea.

I've always dreamed of having a gallery space. For years, I've searched during my travels for the perfect property where I could combine a gallery, a studio, and ample living space. I kept waiting for the day when everything would align so I could finally make it happen. But that day seemed to be ever elusive—until I realized that what I was looking for might have been right under my nose all along.

For the past three years, I've hosted Open Studios at my home in Carshalton, transforming our hallway and dining room into a gallery space for two weekends each summer. Our hallway was one of the reasons we fell in love with this house—it's spacious, quirky, and perfect for a big Christmas tree. We've restored the panelling, stripped and stained the floorboards, and painted it a dusky grey-blue that has proven to be an ideal backdrop for displaying art. Then came my lightbulb moment: Why wait? Why not start now?

And so, here it is—my Gallery at Number 19. My plan is to host two or three small shows a year, focusing on preview and finissage events to draw in viewers. The gallery will then be open by appointment only, allowing me to balance it with my interior design business, art studio practice, kids, family, two dogs, three cats, and a tortoise (insert wonky, crazy face emoji here).

And when I eventually find my dream property in some idyllic part of the country (current contenders include the Isle of Wight, the Scottish Highlands, Dumfries and Galloway, or northwest Wales), I'll maybe open a second Number 19.

Rebecca Tucker, Artist and Curator