The Lido Stores

Gallery owner and curator Kristen Healy established The Lido Stores opposite the iconic Lido obelisk in Margate in what once was a post office/convenience store. The gallery showcases some of the best emerging and mid-career artists from the United Kingdom and Ireland. The private views have become a place to connect with artists and those passionate about the arts which are thriving in, and bringing new life to, the local area.

The Lido Stores was formerly an off-licence and grocery store run by Healy’s father for twenty years from the early ‘90s. With the arrival of cheap overseas flights, the area soon experienced an extended period of decline and neglect. The shop lay empty for years until Healy transformed the main space (gallery 1) into a curated gallery showcasing fine art, with a strong emphasis on contemporary painting. There is also a section devoted to ceramics, homeware, and bespoke jewellery by Kent based artisans.

A vibrant exhibition programme runs throughout the year in the adjoining 10x9ft exhibition space (gallery 2). It features individual artists, group shows and two open calls, including the annual Lido Open with the winner awarded a solo show the following summer.