Inside Cornwall’s New Coastal Art Space: Salt & Canvas Opens This Month

A new creative studio and gallery is opening between Newquay and Truro later this month, offering a glimpse into the world of two Cornish artists inspired by the sea and the stories within it.

A space for art and connection

Salt & Canvas, founded by artists Gemma Lessinger and Bella Wilhm, will officially launch at Agweres, Unit 11, Lanteague Studios, on Saturday 29th November. The space will act as both a working studio and a gallery, where creativity, conversation and community come together.

“Salt & Canvas is a space that feels like home,” says Gemma Lessinger. “It’s somewhere I can invite people into my world, let them feel the texture of my work, and start real conversations about creativity, nature and connection. I’ve always wanted to create a place that feels alive and open, not just a gallery, but a shared experience.”

The name reflects the artists’ shared inspiration — the Cornish coastline — and the tactile, textural nature of their work. Gemma’s ocean-inspired paintings will sit alongside Bella’s mixed-media pieces, which celebrate the incredible diversity of seaweed species along the Cornish coast.

“I’ve been exploring the rich marine life found just beneath the surface here,” says Bella Wilhm. “Each piece celebrates the delicate beauty of seaweed species that often go unnoticed. This project is about revealing that hidden world, and Salt & Canvas gives me a home to share it directly with others.”

Bella’s ongoing seaweed project has already received grant funding to support its development and future exhibitions, while Gemma will continue to use the space to mentor other women in business, host private creative experiences and discuss commissions.

📷Bella Wilhm

Creative experiences on the horizon

Salt & Canvas will also host wine, food and art evenings in collaboration with Agweres, as well as creative clubs and workshops for visitors.

“We both believe creativity grows through connection,” says Gemma. “Whether it’s sharing a glass of wine, collaborating with another maker, or welcoming someone curious about art, we want Salt & Canvas to feel like a place where everyone belongs.”

📷Bella Wilhm

Opening hours

• Monday: Closed

• Tuesday–Friday: By appointment

• Saturday: 10am–2pm

• Sunday: 10am–4pm

Address – Salt & Canvas Studio, Upstairs at Agweres, Lanteague Studios (between Newquay & Truro) — Agweres, Unit 11, Lanteague Studios, Scotland Rd, Zelah, Newquay TR4 9JG.

Visitors are encouraged to book ahead during the week for a personal experience, though drop-ins are welcome whenever the “Come in & Explore” sign is displayed outside.

📷Gemma Lessinger - Credit Philly Stokes

A reflection of Cornwall’s creative spirit

More than just a studio, Salt & Canvas is described as a space grounded in nature, shaped by community and fuelled by curiosity. Visitors can expect a warm welcome, thoughtful conversation and a close-up look at the creative process.

Follow the journey on Instagram: @saltandcanvasstudio

📷Gemma Lessinger - Credit: Gemma Lessinger