The Art Room within The Old School is situated in the former Saint Andrews Primary in Dumfries which is located in the south-west of Scotland. Our story began in 2012 with the opening of the art room in the former staff room of this beautiful building. However it soon became apparent that space was somewhat limited and we needed a bigger venue. And as a result the art room moved to a bigger area located within the same building; which actually turned out to be the schools actual art room!!

It’s very much a family affair since his retirement Emma’s husband, John, helps deliver busy bugs (our baby art club), he’s a dab hand with the coffee machine in our cafe (showing off his barista skills).Their youngest son helps with after school clubs and general running of the Art Room; other family members pop in and out to help in the shop and cafe. Theres always a “Fisher” somewhere within the Art room!

In this “Aladdin’s Cave” of a gift & craft shop we offer handmade products by local, national & international makers as well as a large range of unique & unusual gifts sourced from across the globe. All treasures are complimented by The Art Room’s vast windows & natural light, and The Old School’s special original features.

In 2023 Emma took over the cafe space within the building, It’s a thriving hub of delicious creativity.