Winston the beagle is curled up and fast asleep under Helen’s feet as we sit down for a chat. The popular pup has become a well known face on the street along with owner Helen Owen.

Two years since opening, Casper has become a thriving, vibrant addition to North Street, supporting independent and emerging artists and designers. Helen was able to combine her passion and skills for business and art, to establish her spot on the street by opening the combined retail and gallery space.

Helen moved to Bristol and worked at The Prince's Trust and managed smaller charities and Social Enterprises supporting young people to start their own businesses. Working in this field, Helen was able to develop the skills required to take on the task to start her own.

With an illustrator husband, she quickly realised the business and arts partnership could thrive and she successfully managed the less creative side of the arts world for him. Word spread that she was doing a brilliant job and quickly, Helen was travelling to markets and fairs, offering a platform for creatives to sell through.

In October 2017, having moved to the BS3 area, she decided to open her first shop and was quickly embraced as part of the Bedminster community. Helen explains that it really is a community with everyone working together and supporting one another.

Casper showcases independent artists, with 90% being Bristol based, Helen aims to offer a platform for individuals to showcase their work and has successfully built relationships with a number of local artists.This includes a pop-up shop in the back, which is currently occupied by vibrant vintage store, Something Elsie.

Helen is currently in the process of expanding her gorgeous business with the addition of an online shop so customers can browse from the comfort of their home.

You can visit Casper and say hello to Winston at 221 North St, Bristol BS3 1JJ, or follow them on their social media channels.

Instagram: Casper_Bristol

Twitter: @casperbristol