Art in April: Isherwood & Company

Isherwood & Company, owned by artist and designer Nancy Isherwood of Newport, is home to a collection of curated paintings by N. E. artists, and unique h and crafted gifts from around the world. Voted “Best Gallery in Newport County” five years in a row, as well as “Best Gift Shop 2014” by readers of R.I. Monthly magazine – every year since the business began, is quite an achievement! Upon entering this cozy, eclectic boutique, it becomes obvious why people are drawn to return to shop at Isherwood & Company.

Isherwood & Company opened six years ago on Bellevue Avenue, originally as a studio for Nancy to paint in and show her work along with her artist friends. The business changed a bit with each move, eventually ending up on Bowen’s Wharf, with a new curated selection of artisan goods that appeal to locals, tourists and the dedicated art enthusiast alike. Jewelry, blown glass, pottery, prints, cards and paintings are just some of the unique gifts carried.

Nancy Isherwood received her BFA in Visual Design and Illustration from UMass, Dartmouth. For many years she was a freelance illustrator/designer, specializing in airbrush boat paintings for the maritime industry and Sailing World magazine. She created logos, corporate identity packages and advertisements for companies, and was Executive Director of a non-profit community arts organization. For several years she also worked in the financial services industry. All experiences culminated in forming Isherwood & Company.

Nancy hopes to exp and her product line to include items created and designed by her. Soon she will have an online shopping website, the number one request from tourists who shop at Isherwood & Company. Nancy’s creative skills and past business experiences have culminated in a unique, and beautifully eclectic shop on Bowen’s Wharf.