It’s Time to Celebrate the Game Changing Scottsdale Art Gallery Cafe

It’s almost 20 years since Rod and Shirley began their business in Scottsdale, today known as the Scottsdale Art Gallery Cafe.

Since 2005, it has been an incredible journey for us as our business has grown and become an integral part of the local community.

Embarking on this journey was a bold and courageous step for Rod and Shirley. 

It is a testament to our unwavering belief in our vision and willingness to embrace new challenges.

Growing Step by Step

With this combined background, we opened our original business, Scottsdale Art and Framing, in 2005 in the old Courthouse, now the Visitor Information Centre. Soon after, we moved to 2 Victoria Street, now Loud and Iron. With the business succeeding, we looked to grow, purchasing a derelict residence and trucking company property at 42 King Street. 

A Game Changing Art Gallery for Tasmanian Artists

Throughout this time, the art gallery has only displayed Tasmanian artists, from emerging to highly celebrated.

Shirley has played a crucial role in organising the exhibitions.

She plans the themes, invites artists to exhibit, curates the hanging of the works, and invites the public to openings. 

Rod handles much of the framing, as many exhibiting artists use his services.

An Art Gallery, Cafe and Community

Along with the Art Gallery came the café, a challenging new aspect of business for Rod and Shirley.  We soon learned that the coffee must be tremendous, and that the barista needs to understand the workings of a quality coffee machine. 

Always seeking to achieve exacting standards, Rod and Shirley employed local catering staff who shared their commitment to quality and a passion for serving the community.

How an Art Gallery Cafe Nutures a Community

The Art Gallery Cafe staff’s dedication and hard work have been instrumental in ensuring that high standards have been met consistently over the years.

Over many years, the catering side of the business has hosted numerous events that have brought the community together. Countless birthdays, anniversaries, four weddings and even a funeral have ensured the cafe has been a part of the community’s life.

It’s also been a hub for local gatherings, hosting council functions, new resident morning teas, and the beloved ‘Annual Pudding Night’ that has become a local tradition.  The Café has had many loyal customers. 

The local walking club calls in after their Thursday morning walk, and many other locals and visitors have made it their coffee house in Scottsdale.

Notably, for six years, from 2018 to 2023, Scottsdale Rotary held its fortnightly dinner meetings and other special occasions at the Café.  

About the Art Gallery

Fans of art, visitors in Tasmania and locals will love viewing the exceptional artwork here at Scottsdale Art Gallery Cafe.

We exclusively feature Tasmanian artists who use all kinds of media, including hung artwork, fine pottery, wood, glass, jewellery and more. The gallery has been operating since 2005.

Regular major exhibitions are held throughout the year, featuring works from an individual artist or group of artists, and the extensive stock is regularly revised.

We endeavour to represent the full spectrum of artistic tastes and philosophies, thereby providing a stimulating display of diverse Tasmanian fine and contemporary art.

Follow the Scottsdale Art Gallery Cafe on Facebook and visit their website for news about exhibitions, featured artists, and cafe.