Pictured: Artist Simon Wellington in his home studio in Seaton
What was once an overlooked phone box in Seaton has become something quite extraordinary – a small, self-service gallery powered entirely by honesty, creativity, and community spirit. Behind it is local artist Simon Wellington, whose lifelong connection to art began in an unexpected place.
“My dad had a building firm,” he recalls, “and they had three signwriters working for them. As a little kid, I used to sit and watch them. I loved the smell of the paints and the way they could draw a straight line with just one brush stroke.”
That early fascination stayed with him. Though his path initially led elsewhere: first into professional football, then teaching, it was art that continued to call him back.
“I’d always painted,” he says. “I’d had exhibitions in London and even won a prize there.”
Ten years ago, he moved to Seaton. It was here that inspiration struck again, this time in the form of a disused red phone box. “It was just being used as a urinal,” he says candidly. “But the council had bought it, so I got in touch with them. They were very helpful and said I could use it.”
With support from Seaton Town Council, and drawing on his practical skills, Simon transformed the space into a miniature gallery. Inside, he placed artwork from past exhibitions, original pieces, prints, and cards that had been sitting unused in storage.
“I didn’t really need the money,” he explains. “So, I thought, why not use it to raise funds instead?” What followed exceeded all expectations. In under three years, the phone box has raised over £5,000 for local causes, including the Seaton & District Hospital League of Friends.
But perhaps even more remarkable than the total is how that money has been collected. “It’s all done on trust,” Simon says. “People either leave cash in envelopes, pay online later, or sometimes pop next door for change. They can even take something home and pay afterwards.” In a world often defined by caution, this simple system has worked.
“I think that’s what makes it so rewarding,” he reflects. “It shows what people are really like.” The gallery itself is constantly evolving. New paintings, cards, and even items like placemats and coasters are regularly added, ensuring that no two visits are ever quite the same.
For Simon, however, the project is about more than art. It’s deeply personal. “The reason we moved here was to look after my mum. She passed away in 2023 at the age of 101. So, I know just how important hospice care is.”
That experience shaped his decision to support local charities. “When you give locally, you know it makes a difference. You can see where the money goes. And services like Seaton Hospice at Home, they’re invaluable.”, Simon concluded.
You can explore Simon’s ever-changing collection and support local care by visiting the art charity phone box at Seaton Hole.
Seaton & District Hospital League of Friends recently has received a £2000 donation from Mr Wellington, which will help support the Hospice at Home service.
Mr Wellington was joined by nurses from the Seaton Hospice at Home service to present the award.
We would like to say a heartfelt thank you to Mr Wellington for his artistic efforts and support.