Polka Dot Story
Established by photographer Charles Parsons and Julia Heppell in 2001, Polka Dot Gallery started life as Polka Dot Art Gallery and was based in Exeter’s South Street. It quickly became apparent that jewellery, a lifelong passion of Julia’s, was such a strong medium it warranted a dedicated gallery and so in 2003 began Polka Dot Precious, based at 12 Martins Lane, Exeter.
We’re still enjoying our spot along the cobbles, a stones throw away from the Cathedral today, although we’re now known as Polka Dot Gallery and we have a new woman at the helm. Emma Johns, a member of Polka staff, took over in 2023 when Julia retired. She is planning to take care of the next 20 year chapter!
Emma is now lucky enough to travel to source fresh and interesting jewellery to keep the customers interested. Polka Dot Gallery is also proud to encourage and exhibit the best of emerging and established designers Devon, Cornwall and Somerset have to offer. This eclectic mix of local and international makers gives our customers an unrivalled choice of contemporary jewellery. More choice than you can shake a stick at!
At Polka Dot we employ staff from jewellery making and art backgrounds, who are passionate about the work they sell and knowledgeable about both quality and design. We don't like top boast but we have the friendliest most helpful team going, well we try our very best!