WOMEN IN BUSINESS SUSIE MICHELSON
Susie is the founder of Hidden, a friendly, eclectic art gallery located in The Clifton Arcade
HIDDEN SPREADS HAPPINESS – THAT’S WHAT MAKES IT FEEL SPECIAL
How’s business been this year? SUSIE MICHELSON Hidden has had a whirlwind of a first year. After four months of opening, we acquired the shop next door to sell a bigger range and include work from our personal collection of artists such as Banksy, Hockney, Picasso, Warhol and Miro. It quickly became apparent that there is an appetite for some of the big names in Bristol. What would have made it even better? More government incentives and business rate reductions for expanding small businesses would have helped us maintain our margins, instead of disproportionately increasing our costs. What makes the area you work in special? It is a privilege to show such an inspirational and eclectic range of art, from rare lithographs to limited-edition prints and original work. I love being surrounded by art, and working with wonderful artists from Bristol. Combining local art with rare pieces is pretty unusual; I am so fortunate to be able to pass on this passion to our customers. It’s wonderful to be able to bring a smile and excitement to people by introducing them to beautiful art whatever the price. I think Hidden spreads happiness – that certainly makes it special. What repercussions have you seen from the referendum? There are financial implications for us and every other business. It is quite a challenge now to buy any rare art from outside of the UK, and some of our artists are finding material and printing costs are increasing dramatically. Whatever happens, as a business owner, you learn to survive by adapting and having flexibility.
What are the biggest obstacles you face as a woman in business? I certainly don’t find it a problem. As a woman who started her career in the oil industry in the 1980s, I learnt how to be strong and to overcome obstacles through determination, independence, resilience and hard work. But it is much easier when you are doing something you love. Please big up some of your favourite indie neighbours The Clifton Arcade is such a special place – not only is it beautiful, it has some wonderful small businesses. The Clifton Arcade has a great collection of independent traders and a real community feel. Here are just a few that make a difference to my day: for breakfast, Primrose Café or Twelve. For lunch, Arch House Deli’s sandwiches or Chandos Deli’s samosas. For groceries, definitely Reg the Veg. If I want to treat my wardrobe I pop into Grace & Mabel or Maze, and for my wine rack it is DBM wines just alongside the Arcade. After work, I’d enjoy a drink at Nettle & Rye and supper at the Wallfish Bistro or The Clifton Sausage.
I LIKE EARLY MORNINGS – MAYBE I’M IN THE WRONG BUSINESS . . .
Where do you go to get away from it all? The gallery is open seven days a week, so there is very little time to get away from it all, but I enjoy walking my miniature Schnauzer puppy, Mabel. Our favourite LOUISE MITCHELL spots are overlooking the Suspension Bridge or mooching through Leigh Woods. Then there is always the Lido, the Everyman Cinema and Sunday lunch at The Canteen for real downtime. And plans, hopes and dreams for the new year? I hope to really hone the image of the gallery, source even more amazing art for our customers, expand our customer base and be ‘the’ place in Bristol for great art. www.myhiddenworld.co.uk
84 I BRISTOL LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk