End of an era for art couple
May 1, 2024
After nearly two decades in business, Rod Martin and Shirley Rootes Martin will soon display their last artworks as they prepare to instead hang up their hats.
Having started their Scottsdale business in 2005, today known as the Scottsdale Art Gallery Cafe, the couple will retire at the end of June after selling their King St property to Scott and Fiona Auton.
The Autons will transform the building into a grocer, homewares store and café focussing on local and Tasmanian produce when they take over.
But for the next two months, the Martins are coming to terms with the end of an incredible era.
“Embarking on this journey was a bold and courageous step but we were unwavering in our belief, vision and willingness to embrace new challenges,” Shirley said.
Rod, who had been the Forest Manager at Auspine, had found himself at a crossroads in 2002 when he was made redundant.
Undeterred, he decided to venture into picture-framing, setting up his business in a garage in Scottsdale.
Around the same time, Shirley, who had run beauty salons in Scottsdale and Launceston, decided to embark on a new adventure, completing studies at TAFE in Arts Administration and later, when the business had started, a Master of Contemporary Arts (Gallery Practices) at UTAS.
With this combined background, Rod and Shirley opened their original business, Scottsdale Art and Framing, in 2005 in the old Courthouse, now the Visitor Information Centre.
Soon after, they moved to 2 Victoria Street, now Loud Iron.
With the business succeeding, they looked to grow, purchasing a derelict residence and trucking company property at 42 King Street. Here, they created the purpose-designed building that opened in 2010 as the Scottsdale Art Gallery Cafe.
“We have hosted an average of ten exhibitions yearly which is a fantastic minimum of 200 exhibitions over the past 20 years,” she said.
“Throughout this time, the gallery has only displayed Tasmanian artists, from emerging to highly celebrated, and it has been a joy to play a crucial role in organising the exhibitions by planning the themes, inviting artists to exhibit, curating the hanging of the works, and inviting the public to openings.
“Rod has handled much of the framing, as many exhibiting artists use his services.”
Along with the gallery came the café, which Shirley said was a challenging new aspect of business.
“We soon learned that the coffee must be tremendous, and that the barista needs to understand the workings of a quality coffee machine.
“We employed local catering staff who shared our commitment to quality and a passion for serving the community. Our staff’s dedication and hard work have been instrumental in ensuring that high standards have been met consistently over the years.
“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, Rotary meetings, new resident morning teas, and the beloved 'Annual Pudding Night' that has become a local tradition. We are very grateful to our many loyal customers.”
The business also expanded to include bike hire for people using the North-East Rail Trail as well as a transfer service for riders to the top of the Billycock.
Rod and Shirley look forward to retiring to Bridport where Rod will continue to picture frame and Shirley will work with couples in her role as a marriage celebrant.
“I am sure we will be as busy as ever continuing to be involved in the community we love,” she said.