This Christmas, the entrance to our Emmaus Cambridge shop has been transformed into a vibrant new art gallery – a gift made possible thanks to the extraordinary generosity of Rex from Granary Studio in Christchurch, Cambridgeshire.
Rex has kindly donated a large collection of beautiful, professionally produced artworks and mirrors, with every piece crafted or finished in his own studio. Sales from the donation will help us raise vital funds to support people overcoming homelessness in our community.
A world of images created with care
The gallery showcases a wide range of artworks, with images sourced from all over the world. Many of these pieces are printed in A4 size and presented within A3 frames for a striking finish – you may have already seen some of these in our Landbeach shop.
Subjects range from playful cartoons to breathtaking wildlife. Rex often creates themed batches using matching frames so pieces can be displayed together for an impressive interior design look. Our gallery has been skillfully installed by our Operations Assistant, Steve.
Rex said: “For larger art pieces, high-resolution imagery is used, featuring sweeping landscapes, seascapes and wildlife photography. Each piece is printed at Granary Studio using high-quality equipment and finished with ArtShield, a matte film that replaces glass. This innovative process creates lightweight, durable art with no glare, no breakages, and a beautifully professional finish.”
Beautiful hand-framed mirrors
Alongside the artwork, we’re delighted to offer a selection of stunning 40cm x 140cm bevelled dressing mirrors.
Rex said: “These were created using chunky silver and gold frame mouldings generously donated to support Granary Studio’s charity work. These mirrors have already proven extremely popular, and we hope to source more materials in future to continue this project.”
The story behind Granary Studio
Rex runs Granary Studio from his converted barn home, where bedrooms three and four have become the heart of his creative workspace. His passion for framing began in the 1970s when he worked alongside his father, before their family business moved into furniture making. When retirement came, he knew exactly what he wanted to return to – framing.
Today, Rex provides bespoke framing for his local community, including local artists, while also developing trade partnerships with interior designers. His innovative work with ArtShield also led to the creation of the framemyphoto website, which offers a unique way for people to turn their own images into beautifully sealed, ready-to-display art.
A donation rooted in compassion
Rex’s generosity is deeply connected to his own family’s personal experience. His wife Linda suffered a life-changing brain injury 12 years ago following meningitis, leaving her unable to walk, talk or communicate. Rex cares for her full-time with the help of a PA, agency support and his daughter Nell and her husband.
Their journey opened their eyes to how difficult it can be for families caring for disabled loved ones – and how underfunded support services often are. Rex champions charities like Facet and Branching Out, both of which do incredible work on minimal resources.
He sees similar challenges in the homelessness sector, where understanding and funding are also in short supply.
He said: “The difference is that, given the right help, people can recover and get back on their feet. Thank God for Emmaus. We’re so glad the Cambridge team are within our reach.”
Visit our new gallery this Christmas
Donna Talbot, our Chief Executive Officer said: “We are incredibly grateful to Rex for this meaningful and practical donation. Every artwork and mirror sold in our new gallery helps raise essential funds for our community of companions – people who have experienced homelessness and are rebuilding their lives with our support.
“If you’re looking for unique Christmas gifts, a statement piece for your home, or simply a reason to smile, come and explore the gallery at the entrance to our Emmaus Cambridge shop.
“Your purchase doesn’t just brighten your home – it helps change lives.”