Charlee Piper: Don’t Miss My Margate

Welcome to our new interview series, My Margate, which uncovers the very best gems that Margate has to offer.

And who’s better to do that, than some of the most talented people in town - from award-winning poets to drag kings, DJs, influencers, artists and baristas.

Our latest interview in the My Margate series is artist Charlee Piper.

Charlee Piper is an artist working in Margate

first things first, let’s get you introduced

I’m Charlee Piper (they/them), an artist and pawrent living by the sea in Margate.

What do you do in Margate?

I’m an artist and workshop facilitator. I have exhibited with Margate Pride and Thanet’s Power of Women Festival. My work is also available to buy year-round at the shop I manage in the Old Town; The Store Collective.

I’ve also facilitated workshops for Margate Pride, The Turner, and Margate Trans Club.

What brought you here? Or have you always been here?

I was born in the UK and went to St. Lawrence college in Ramsgate as a child. We would often visit Margate on the weekends. I moved to the U.S. when I was 8 and lived there for about 30 years.

When The Orange Turd first got elected, I moved back to the U.K. as quickly as I could.

I chose Margate because I needed to be by the sea and because Margate had its own Pride Festival and a growing arts scene. To see both truly blossom in the almost 8 years I’ve lived here has been incredible.

Charlee’s a proud pawrent to Vincent

What makes Margate magic for you?

The people. The diversity. The constant evolution of the local queer and arts communities.

What’s Your favourite shop?

I’m a bit biased, obviously, but I have to say The Store Collective.

It is a great place to work and supports local makers. The ethos behind the shop (sustainability, championing queer, women, and black-owned business) makes me proud to work here.

Charlee’s work has appeared at galleries all over Margate

What’s your favourite way to spend a Saturday or Sunday here?

A little lie in cuddled up with the dog, a nice walk, a Doubloon’s coffee, and then a day in my studio at Joseph Wales making work.

Who is your Margate legend?

The team behind Margate Pride.

What’s your Don’t Miss Margate tip?

You have to go to the The Crab Museum.

For more information on Charlee’s work, follow them on Instagram.

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