A NEW arts co-operative initiative is coming to the centre of Launceston, opening on Saturday, June 3.

The shop at 5 Church Street, formerly Tamar of Launceston, is being converted into an art and craft collective. On sale will be locally made cards, prints, paintings, pottery, textiles, jewellery, mosaics and glass, all sold by the makers themselves.

The Zebediahs art and craft co-operative shop project is masterminded by Suzie and her husband John Preston.

The premises used to be a gallery and antiques shop. Suzie said: “When taking down the ‘Tamar of Launceston’ shop sign we discovered to our delight a window to the past. Norman and Irene Preston’s black and white Tamar Gallery sign was revealed underneath from 25 years ago.”

John and Suzie believe that Norman, John’s dad, would be pleased, as a painter himself, that the shop has come full circle to house beautiful things once again.

Suzie added: “The town will benefit from an input of creative energy, certainly more uplifting than all those ‘To Let ‘ signs. Hopefully it will attract more people into the town we love.”