Old Black & White photo Photo of William Conor in the gallery

Nelson Bell having worked for John Magee Ltd., opened The Bell Gallery in December 1964 in one room in a linen warehouse at 3 Alfred Street, Belfast. The first Exhibition was by William Conor. Two further shows by Conor were held before his death in 1968.

Keating outside 3 Alfred Street

John Keatings only visit to Belfast was in 1965 for his exhibition at the gallery.

Doorway of 4 Alfred Street

Additional premises at 4 Alfred Street, ground floor were rented, as other floors became available an Irish book room and framing workshop were established.

Many different artists exhibitions in these years and Irish Art of all periods was bought and sold

Pillar Box and redevelopment

The intensity of the troubles and bombing in the city centre, together with the redevelopment of the Linen warehouse, necessitated a move to new premises.

View of 2 Malone Road

In 1975 the ground floor of 2 Malone Road in the University area proved a bright airy venue for many Exhibitions. Here too bombs were not far away, two being left on our windowsills on a pleasant August evening, while sweeping up the glass next morning, a large Kenneth Webb was sold. The building was restored with the gallery continuing courtesy of the builders.

13 Adelaide Park

In 1981 The Bell Gallery moved to a detached red brick villa, “Castleavery”, at 13 Adelaide Park, Belfast, between the Lisburn and Malone Roads. Again many interesting Exhibitions were held at this venue.

In 2000 Sothebys.com established an on line market auction site and The Bell Gallery became an associate with some success in selling through Sothebys.com. Later events prompted Sothebys to close this area of their business.

June 2007 The Bell Gallery closes at 13 Adelaide Park with the intention of buying and selling on-line from rural County Antrim, on www.bellgallery.com

The Long House, Randalstown.