About The Quay Arts Hub
When, in November 2025, it was discovered that the building at number 3 Fore Street was going to be vacated by the then tenant, local artist and Polruan resident Louise Kidd decided to take on the lease for one year and establish a community-based arts hub for the enjoyment and benefit of the village. The Quay Arts Hub CIC (Community Interest Company) was formed with four directors (Louise Kidd, Trish Onken, Carrie Jeffries and Gini Ainley) and along with a team of volunteers, work began on opening The Hub. After a whirlwind of bank account applications, insurance documents, website and social media administration, interior cleanup and design, plus new signage, The Hub opened its doors on the 1st of February 2026 and welcomes everyone with an interest in all things creative.
The Directors
LOUISE KIDD - ‘I have drawn and painted throughout my life. I completed a BA in Woven and Printed Textile Design in 1973. After attending two year long courses at Newlyn School of Art, | have recently graduated from Falmouth University with an MA in Fine Art.
As a painter, my paintings are deeply rooted in the local landscape I see from the Coastal Path where I walk every day with my dog. My work is a journey as Idevelop techniques to produce vibrant abstracted landscapes.’
TRISH ONKEN - Trish is an Irish-born mixed media artist whose creative practice has run parallel to a full-time corporate career as an executive assistant. Having lived and worked in London, Canada and Luxembourg, her artwork is shaped by a rich blend of cultural influences and lived experience.
Now settled in Polruan since 2025, Trish continues to develop a distinctive body of work.
CARRIE JEFFRIES - ‘I moved down to beautiful Polruan in 2018, after a career in London in television, performance and teaching, and I was drawn here by the wide open spaces and the wonderful sense of community. I now work as an Independant Celebrant in the East Cornwall area, which is a real privilige.
My own creativity is focused on Writing, reading, theatre, yoga and dance, although I am rediscovering my love of painting, inspired by the other artists in the village. I hope to share some of my passions with others through The Hub.’
GINI AINLEY - ‘I moved to Polruan six years ago and absolutely love living here and being a part of such a vibrant community.
Having had a demanding business career in the corporate world I am now enjoying my retirement; keeping busy in the garden, getting involved in community initiatives, making lots of wonderful new friends and when the weather allows getting on the water to do some sailing!
In my youth I used to love art and drawing but am of an age where I was not allowed to study art at ‘O’ Level as it was not considered academic enough! Well now I am determined to give it a go. I am a complete beginner so please come and join me and try some of the activities at the Quay Arts Hub.’