A NEW art and fashion shop selling 'one-off, quirky' items has opened in Whitehaven.

Artemis Art & Fashion, which is located on Whitehaven's Lowther Street, was opened on Saturday, September 28 by businesswoman Artemisa Pop.

Artemisa initially had businesses in Millom and on Whitehaven's Roper Street before opening her latest art and fashion shop in the town. 

Artemisa was born in Bucharest, Romania, and was inspired to run her own businesses by her mum - who was also a budding entrepreneur - as well as her love for 'quirky' clothes and artwork.

She said: "I am an artist. I studied psychology and counselling but I have always loved to paint.

"I was a shopaholic and I have always liked nice things, I have plenty of dresses and I like to buy nice and interesting things.

"My mum started a business when I was little in Romania in Bucharest and she started a shop after the revolution and I was really inspired by her. If she can do it then I can do it too!

"What Artemis brings is one-off, interesting items that are quirky and I also want to expand the art side of the business.

"I would love to open a hub for artists in the upstairs room of the business going forward as well.

Artemisa was also keen to thank locals for their support since she opened Artemis Art & Fashion, however, encouraged more people to support local businesses in Whitehaven.

She said: "People have said how glad they are that I have moved into this new location, they have been so lovely. 

"I love this town, I came here as a tourist and I ended up moving to Whitehaven and I love it.

"If people don't want to see empty shops they need to come down into town and support shops or not order online.

"I think we all need to do more otherwise local businesses will not be able to survive."