Community Focus. - Rùda.
To mark our second anniversary, we’re launching a series that shines a light on the people who have been by our side and helped shape Dōr. Into what it is today.
This series is about the customers and friends who have ripped up the rulebook, made us second question ourselves, defined our style, and pushed us to level up.
Each feature will showcase their stories, their audacity, their culture and the fearless ways they’ve shaped our world. Into a better place.
First Up it’s — Rùda.
Nestled in the conservation village of St Boswells in the Scottish Borders lies a creative sanctuary brimming with warmth, artistry, and inspiration.
The brainchild of artists Phillippa Henley and Shaun Fagan, is more than just a gallery. Its a collaborative creative practice, gallery and studio.
The charm lies in its blend of craftsmanship and community. Within its walls, visitors can explore Henley and Fagan’s original works in sculpture, printmaking, and textiles.
Alongside these, the gallery stocks a thoughtful selection of art materials and distinctive homeware, a reflection of the duo’s impeccable eye for quality and design.
Life Behind the Art
In a quick-fire reflection, Phillippa and Shaun reveal the simple joys and inspirations that shape their world:
What’s the one thing that brings you most happiness in your home?
P: Our dogs Alba and Sibi, they make us laugh with their crazy antics.
S: The dogs of course.
Where’s is your favourite place to go in the world?
P: Paris. We truly feel like ourselves the second we arrive.
S: Paris with Phillippa.
Three go to products in store?
P: Ruth Leslie Jewellery, Blanc Ceramics, Assembly Coffee - if you’re in store, Jack will make you the best coffee in the Borders.
S: I like to see what’s new from Moebe, Spring Copenhagen and it’s hard to say on clothing but probably Kestin.
What are your two most respected brands? (Doesn’t have to be in store)
P: I have to honour my roots and say Barbour, for a timeless wax jacket & Jamieson’s of Shetland - for the best hard wearing Scottish knitwear.
S: Old Town Clothing for classic workwear & L. Cornelissen & Son for serious art materials!
What makes a — close to perfect day?
P: Wake up on the West Coast of Scotland, no phone signal, no plans, just beach combing, cooking outside and a glass of wine by a fire at the end of the day.
S: Good company, weather and food. With dogs
If you weren't in your current profession, what would you be doing?
P: Aside from the art world, I’d probably work in horticulture - nothing calms my mind and feeds my soul more than being surrounded by plants.
S: I’d probably be a prop/set designer, I like the challenge of practically realising a creative idea.
Candles or Incense?
P: Candles, everything is better by candlelight.
S: Incense, cos its smoky.
Hot or Cold?
P: Hot because I’m obsessed with tea, a hot cup of tea solves everything.
S: Hot, reminds me of childhood trips to South Africa to stay with my grandparents.
What was your first concert?
P: Wet Wet Wet - Clydebank’s finest. With my mum (her favourite band) when I was about 7 and I knew all the words to every song.
S: Korn, at the Corn Exchange no less, with my one of my oldest friends Robbie.
What are you curious about?
P: Nature, endlessly inspiring and humbling.
S: Seeing inside other artist studios and workshops.
What are your top three biggest pet peeves?
P: Noisy people on public transport, running out of milk, strong smelling laundry detergent.
S: Littering, tailgating, woodworm.
Did you have an imaginary friend growing up?
P: Not one in particular but I did play ‘Shops’ a lot - my career path was inevitable.
S: I think they were real?
Why Visit Rùda?
Whether you’re in search of unique art, inspired interiors, or simply a warm Borders welcome, Rùda is a haven where creativity meets community.
Drop by to soak in the artistry, chat with the makers, and perhaps leave with a piece of the Borders to call your own.
Plan Your Visit —
Instagram: @rudastudio_
Website: rudastudio.com
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