The first thing that struck me as I walked into the newly opened Concord Art and Antiques was the light, bright, and airy feel of this delightful shop. The friendly smiles of co-owners Bobbi Benson and Joy Moore instantly transformed the sometimes-intimidating process of shopping for antiques into a relaxing afternoon with friends (who happen to be incredibly knowledgeable about their carefully curated collection of beautiful pieces). What a wonderful experience!

Bobbi and Joy are dear friends whose decades of experience in the worlds of art and antiques complement each other perfectly. They first met while working at another antique shop in the area. Their friendship grew through projects such as the Tricon Antique Show (taking place this year on November 4-5). Finding that they had a shared sense of esthetic, a knack for finding unique pieces for their clients, and an unbeatable entrepreneurial spirit, they took the jump and opened their own store this August. Together, the two have created a delightful space with truly unique treasures.

Courtesy of Concord Art and Antique

Joy combines her love of fine art, her degree in Art History (she even studied in France), and her experience in dealing in collectible art to curate a rare and fascinating collection.

“Ethel V. Ashton’s artwork can be found in many museums’ permanent collections, in important private collections, and now in our shop in Concord,” said Joy. “I am honored to own the estate of Ethel V. Ashton, and to be able to share these highly collectible (and strikingly beautiful) artworks with visitors to Concord Art and Antiques.”

A native of Concord for more than 20 years, Bobbi is a generalist in the field of antiques. Drawing on more than 35 years of experience, Bobbi has curated a stunning collection of Staffordshire transferware, estate jewelry, nineteenth and twentieth century ceramics, gilt-framed mirrors, sterling silver, fine period furniture, and oriental rugs.

©Pierre Chiha Photography

“We chose West Concord because it is such an artsy and collaborative neighborhood,” said Bobbi. “More and more people are discovering this gem of an area, filled with unique shops, great restaurants, art, and even music festivals like Porchfest. The cornerstone of Debra’s Natural Gourmet is a huge draw for all kinds of shoppers, and the new trolley service is bringing more visitors this way. We felt it was the perfect place to open a shop that combines fine art, design esthetic, antique jewelry, ceramics, and more.”

Bobbi and Joy look forward to welcoming you, Wednesday through Sunday from 11am - 5pm at 129 Commonwealth Ave. in West Concord. Visit their Instagram site, @concordartandantiques, for information about Sunday Open Houses (with light refreshments and lots of fun!), mystery envelopes for shoppers, and additional promotions to celebrate the opening of this beautiful new shop.

This article made possible through the support of Concord Art and Antiques.