Alexander Millar, best known for creating the iconic ‘Gadgie’, officially closed the doors of his Newcastle Grey Street gallery for the final time
Alexander Millar, best known for creating the iconic ‘Gadgie’, officially closed the doors of his Newcastle Grey Street gallery for the final time(Image: The Bigger Picture Agency)
A Newcastle city centre gallery has closed it’s doors as the artist behind the business says it was “one of the hardest decisions [he’s] ever made”. Alexander Millar, best known for creating the iconic ‘Gadgie’, officially closed the doors of his Grey Street gallery for the final time.
As the lease on the business came to an end on the July 19, Alexander explained that saying goodbye to the gallery was “like letting go of an old friend”. But he also described how the timing felt right as the daily demands of client commissions and running two galleries – in Newcastle and Glasgow – made him realise that it was time to “take it a little more easy”.
While the closure is bittersweet, Alexander is looking forward to focusing on the things he loves most: painting, travelling, and enjoying a more flexible lifestyle. “It’s not retirement – it’s more like turning the page to a new chapter,” said Alexander.
“Closing the Newcastle Gallery was one of the hardest decisions I’ve ever made. It’s been a part of me for so long, and saying goodbye felt like letting go of an old friend.
“But deep down, I know it’s time to return to my roots – to pick up the brush, follow inspiration wherever it leads, and reconnect with the joy that first made me fall in love with painting.”
Alexander Millar, best known for creating the iconic ‘Gadgie’, officially closed the doors of his Newcastle Grey Street gallery for the final time(Image: The Bigger Picture Agency)
Although the Newcastle gallery has now closed, Alexander’s artistic presence remains strong. His Glasgow Gallery remains open, honouring his Scottish roots and his long-standing connection with the city. He will also continue to reach fans and collectors through online sales, virtual exhibitions, and pop-up events across the UK.
“Newcastle has truly become a second home to me,” Alexander added, “The warmth and support I’ve felt from the people here have meant more than I can put into words. This city has shaped not just my work, but my life. Even though the gallery has closed, I’m not going anywhere – I’ll still be around, popping up at events, saying hello, and enjoying a quiet coffee in the places that have become part of my every day.”
The Gadgie, Alexander’s much-loved character, continues to capture the spirit of ordinary life and community. Now, in many ways, the artist is becoming a Gadgie himself – reflecting on the past, enjoying the present, and looking forward to what comes next.
“This is a celebration of everything we’ve built,” Alexander said. “It’s not the end – it’s just the beginning of a new chapter. The creativity isn’t stopping – it’s just evolving.” Fans can continue to follow his journey and purchase artwork through: www.alexandermillar.com
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