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In early 2004 two professional photographers sought out a studio space in Suffolk. Both Anthony Cullen and
Brett Williams had worked all over the world, but with young families they wanted to find a studio space closer
to home.
The abandoned chandlery at Pin Mill had once been a sail loft for wintering Thames Barges and now, almost
derelict, it was to make a perfect studio space. The large room in front was also ideal to be converted into an
art gallery to showcase the many talented artists who live in the area. Anthony's partner, Louise Cullen put her
degree in History of Art to good use recruiting a range of stunning visual artists and ceramicists to take a chance
on the new gallery. After a summer of hard work they opened the transformed space on October 2nd 2004 with
a particulalry good party!
The Pin Mill Studio quickly established a reputation as an arts space. "A breath of fresh air to the region's art
scene" said ArtsEast magazine. Meanwhile the photography side of the business flourished with Anthony and
Brett diversifying into portraiture shoots for families, as well as corporate shoots, still lifes, fashion shoots and
much more. In 2007 Anthony launched Photographic Day - one-day courses in digital photography
Perhaps because of their own young children, both Brett and Anthony were keen to encourage other young
families to enjoy all the fun of Pin Mill and the "wellies and dogs welcome" sign has made many people smile,
as have the range of ice creams, fishing nets and now homemade cakes. The annual Pin Mill Duck Race has
raised hundreds of pounds for the RNLI and the Pin Mill Studio Easter Egg hunts through the National Trust
woodlands have entertained hundreds of young families too.
Sadly Brett died from a brain tumour on Good Friday 2008, aged just 39. He was a wonderful, energetic,
enthusiastic and determined lover of life, of his family and of his many friends. He is very much missed by us all.
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