At the age of 86, many individuals are retiring from the workforce, but Audrey Cooper took a different path. Cooper, now approaching her 98th birthday, opened Art With Panache, an art gallery situated in the Talbot Centre at the junction of Richmond and Fullarton Streets in downtown London.
Cooper transitioned to running the gallery after deciding to stop painting and focus on promoting other artists, a decision she made later in life. She finds joy in engaging with artists about their creations and being engulfed in a world of vibrant colors within the gallery.
Art With Panache stands out with its captivating displays that attract passersby en route to the mall’s RBC branch or food court. The gallery supports local artists by allowing them to exhibit their work at no cost and taking a commission on each sale.
Cooper’s approach involves building connections with customers and matching them with artwork that resonates with their preferences. She emphasizes the importance of showcasing original art, which she believes carries a piece of the artist’s soul.
Although Cooper’s love for art blossomed later in life, her journey began in Toronto during a period where career opportunities for women were limited. After raising a family, she ventured into entrepreneurship, leveraging her secretarial skills to establish a document production business before eventually relocating to London in the 1970s.
In her gallery, Cooper’s earlier works, characterized by urban folk art themes, are on display, capturing nostalgic scenes from her past. Despite ceasing to paint in her mid-80s, she humorously embarked on the gallery venture to support emerging local artists.
Recognized for her contributions to the art community, Cooper remains dedicated to her gallery as she prepares for a forthcoming exhibition focusing on Canadian nationalism. With new residential developments in the vicinity expected to attract more clientele, Cooper’s passion for the gallery continues to drive her forward.
The gallery serves as more than just a business for Cooper—it is a labor of love that fuels her spirit and keeps her actively engaged.
