It’s not easy being a sole trader, a small scale maker, a freelance creative, a lone ranger (although at least he had a horse) so it’s good to gather together.

Thus it was in June 2018 Mirva Gallery Collective CIC was founded, and with it a charming gallery and shop in a buzzing, bohemian area of Penzance. A hub of creativity and also a focal point for visitors from all over the globe wanting to experience the magic of Cornwall.

Today, the directors - Angie Truman, Abby Lockwood, Peng Xi and Simon Tredinnick - overseen by the Community Interest Company (CIC) Regulator, work day-to-day as champions for the traders - a steering group open to the ideas, notions and dreams of everyone but ultimately taking the lead In helping MIRVA to thrive.

Talking of dreams, the benefits for MIRVA traders are many. Trading in locations that would otherwise be too pricey and forging connections with other local sole traders creating strong defences against the winds of fiscal uncertainty.

Keeping it local means logistics are not only less damaging to the environment but cheaper which in turn fortifies small businesses, lowering unemployment and allowing for the agility of pop-ups in vacant shops and new permanent retail opportunities.

And so to business - MIRVA rents space to traders with a mere 2% fee on all transactions.

MIRVA is registered with Plastic-Free Penzance so packaging is limited to paper bags and the like. Reduce, reuse and recycle is the MIRVA way.

Anything and everything which helps to make us a successful group!

MIRVA Gallery is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company, founded and registered at Companies House on 21st June 2018. Company number 11427040