The Queen has moved her Cupboard (14 photos)

Even though she may not be an artist herself, Pat Bowles has always enjoyed being surrounded by the arts.

Now, the owner of Queen Cupboard and her customers will be provided with an artistic backdrop at her new location.

"I think it's going to work out well," said Bowles. "I like the warehouse look and it's really a perfect fit with all the artists and creativity that surrounds me here."

On Saturday afternoon Bowles (pictured above on the left with friends Chris Carter, centre, and Carol Mascardelli, right) officially opened the new location for her gift and antique store on 69 Church Street.

Her new hours will be Saturday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Over the past few months the former MNR warehouse has become home to local artists looking to sell their wares.

Chris Shoust has been organizing monthly gatherings since December and thinks the Queens Cupboard will draw more feet through the doors.

"It's been very busy today, so that's a good sign for everyone here," said Shoust. "From an oil painting to pottery, there's really nowhere for our local artists to sell their stuff, so this is an important place."

Since the demolition of the Cornwall building over a year ago, Shoust said local artists have been without a free place to display their work for sale.

Painters, sculptors and craftspeople of varying types packed the house on Saturday.

Shoust said the space is open to all different types of people and those interested can contact him at [email protected]

"It's free for any artist to come," he said. "There's no censorship based on age, experience or what level you're at."

In addition to the creative surroundings Bowles now finds herself in, she said her new, smaller location will allow her more travel time in search of items to fill the Queens Cupboard.

Bowles has merchandise available ranging from vintage clothing to giftware, collectables, antique furniture and jewelry.

She travels throughout Ontario and Michigan seeking vintage items for her store and most of the products for sale are from the 1960's.

Bowles said her next sale will be on May 26-27; where all giftware will be 40 percent off.