Dundee Art College brightens up the streets of Broughty Ferry

‘It’s become a treasured tradition.’

The Salvation Army Broughty Ferry charity shop, run by Salvation Army Trading Company Ltd (SATCol), began welcoming the community of Dundee through its doors when it opened 16 years ago. In the years since, the shop has remained a beloved spot for the local residents, bargain hunters and charity shop lovers. For the last 12 years, Shop Manager, Maureen Bryce, has led the team from strength to strength, taking pride in her shop’s visual merchandising.

“I previously looked after five stores and now, managing just one, it has given me the opportunity to think outside the box.” shares Maureen, who self-proclaims that her best shop ideas come to her late at night. “It was one of those nights that I thought it would be a great idea to approach the art college to ask if they would be interested in decorating our windows.”

Unbeknown to Maureen, a group of illustration students from Duncan of Jordanstone College of Art & Design, part of the University of Dundee in Scotland, were setting out on a mission to broaden their artistic horizons by exploring Dundee and the surrounding areas, looking to build new community connections.

The group paid a visit to the Broughty Ferry shop. Frances Bremner, Illustration Student at the college, shares: “After we got chatting to Maureen, she mentioned that she’s always wanted people to paint on the windows, and so we offered to do it for her.” The artists worked alongside Maureen to create their first design, which they debuted on Christmas 2022. The first window was a huge success, with Maureen inviting the students back every Christmas and spring since, sharing: “They do such an amazing job. Now I don’t like having the windows un-painted!”. Customers and passers-by have praised the shop, calling it “the best-looking charity store in Broughty Ferry” emphasising “after all, just look at that window!”.

Four years on - and the students, who volunteer their time to do the illustrations, have built a strong relationship with the shop team. Frances, who has supported the project since the beginning shares: “Everyone who’s been involved over the years has loved painting the windows for The Salvation Army. It’s become a cherished tradition for those of us who've painted each year. Mo and the rest of the team at the shop have always been so lovely and welcoming”

Frances continued: “It’s been wonderful to engage with the community through such an incredible charity, and the lovely people who work there. This partnership has resulted in years of colourful designs brightening up a charity storefront, which not only brings joy to the people walking by but also encourages more people to come in and donate to a good cause. It has also allowed us, the students, to form a really meaningful friendship with Maureen, who has been so positive and encouraging over the years.”

Although the students are set to graduate this year, they are determined to continue supporting the shop. “We have enjoyed volunteering for The Salvation Army so much that we are planning on returning for the window painting when we can, and will be passing the mantle on to the younger students at the college to get involved, so that this partnership can continue in one way or another.”

Going forward, the shop team are looking forward to getting more involved with local partnerships. Maureen reflected: “I think it’s so important to work with the local community, as this raises the profile of the store, encourages more people to visit and donate, and ultimately helps us to raise more money for our charity. Please feel free to come and visit us sometime!”.