About Us

It all began as Loveartnortheast in 2013 with one small monthly arts' event. Within a few months we had doubled in size and soon had several other venues in Newcastle-upon-Tyne where we were based.

The pandemic and a house move to north Northumberland, led to a change of direction.

Online artists' studios were created, a new website built with a name change.

The studios are now home to around 50 artists and continue to grow alongside our live events.

In 2025 we're continuing our journey with the launch of an annual art trail with more venues across Northumberland and the Scottish Borders.

Meet our team

Lesley McNish

Creative Director

Lesley founded The Tin Shed (formerly Loveartnortheast) after a long career as a television reporter. Her aim is to help take quality art and artisan craft to a wider audience across the North of England and Scottish Borders.

Missy Moo Moo

The Real Boss

Behind every great organisation is a cat. Missy has been with The Tin Shed for the past 7 years.She likes to do her thinking inside the box - any box will do - but this particular one has her aspirational name on it.


Our Journey (so far)

Here's a little look back at some of the amazing events and venues we've staged over the past 11 years.

Christmas Arts' Fair 

St Nicholas Cathedral, Newcastle

Christmas Arts' Fair, Nicholas Cathedral Newcastle

ArtFest, Newcastle-upon-Tyne

Art in Alnmouth, Hindmarsh Hall, Alnmouth

Annual Festive Fair St Nicholas Cathedral

Charity Art Fair, Children Northeast, Biscuit Factory

Art at Etal, Ford and Etal

Northbound Exhibition, Newcastle Central Station

Northbound Exhibition, Newcastle Central Station

Art at Etal, Ford and Etal, Northumberland

Artisan Festive Fair, Ellingham Hall, Northumberland

Northbound Exhibition

Art in the Castle, Ayton Castle, Eyemouth

Art in Alnwick, Northumberland

Whalton Art Fairs

Art in the Castle, Ayton Castle, Eyemouth

Louisa Waterford Prize, Lady Waterford Hall

First Friday Arts Steamers, Newcastle Central Station

Jesmond Art Fair

Annual Festive Fair, St Nicholas Cathedral

Art Fair Kirknewton Heritage Day, Northumberland