When two highly-respectable shops in Harpenden became one, Artscape was born. Studio 35, which offered art and craft materials along with framing services, and Madesco, which provided dyeline printing, photocopying, and office supplies, were combined. This merger led to a one-shop stop for Harpenden residents.

Unsubstantiated reports from a Harpenden resident dates Studio 35’s ownership to the town’s most famous art materials producer Henry Newton. It’s believed he owned the shop 50 years ago when it was located on the High Street. Studio 35 was previously owned by C. Hallam, who ran the shop as a photographic studio, although it did offer art materials too.

Sometime later, Geoff and Muriel Sanderson owned Studio 35. The couple ran it for 17 years as a photographic studio. They also sold art and craft materials, greeting cards, toys, picture framing and gifts.

In 1985 the Suharan family took ownership of the shop. Then in June 2000, Studio 35 had to leave the High Street, which is when Artscape was born. The company moved into a much bigger location (Unit 4 Bowers Parade) in Harpenden. However, Artscape had to find a new home at Unit 8 Southdown Industrial Estate, as its home was being demolished to make way for housing. In early 2020 redevelopment plans at Southdown meant another move to 32 Coldharbour Lane but this hasn't affected the shop’s resolve to offer all the services it previously did. You will still find the same extensive range of art and craft materials and stationery products together with free customer parking outside and an on-site framing workshop.

Today, Artscape is proud to be a Winsor and Newton Premier Art Centre
When people visit Artscape, they can expect professional, friendly service with knowledgeable staff to assist them. It doesn’t matter what patrons need – picture framing, mountboards, art and craft materials, stationery, computer refill ink cartridges, high-quality colour copying, etc. We offer a host of services and products to ensure that you get everything you need in one shop.