A collective of 26 local artists has opened a new fine art gallery called Twenty-Four North East in Sunderland city centre, transforming the former Sweet Home Alabama shop on Fawcett Street. The gallery launched with a busy opening night attended by the Mayor and Mayoress of Sunderland, featuring works ranging from screw art by Darren Timby to SAFC fan scenes by Chris Cummings and pieces by Dr Ron Lawson, creator of the Molly sculpture. The gallery operates Tuesday to Saturday, selling original fine art from £90, prints, and cards, and plans to host workshops.
The gallery matters because it provides a low-commission platform for local artists—curator Julie Poulton notes some galleries charge up to 50% commission, while Twenty-Four North East does not—helping keep costs down for buyers and retaining creative talent in Sunderland. Co-founder Ken Devine emphasized the gallery is for the community with a "use it or lose it" message, reflecting a broader revitalization of Fawcett Street that includes new restaurants and an upcoming Art Cafe. This initiative strengthens Sunderland's local creative economy and offers emerging artists a visible city-centre presence.