I would certainly support Sydenham for the gallery
The Cobbs Corner area is an option as you say…. what size of gallery would you be looking for? The premises opposite the gym (which used to be the floor zone or similar name) - that seems fairly empty, and you'd get a fair amount of footfall around there I dare say (with the bus stops) plus plenty of passing traffic (often at snail's pace given the congestion - plenty of time to spot a potential purchase in a gallery!
Personally I like art pre 1900 (especially mid to late Victorian)….but then, that said, art of any type is interesting. Even 'modern' art (which for me is Edwardian or later )
I think a gallery is a lovely place to mingle and enjoy some culture and get inspired….. I could spend a week wandering around the National Gallery or Tate Britain….if only I could afford to buy from there!!!
Best of luck - I can see it now - the Kirkdale Gallery (or similar) - and if you had a lovely shop front, the people would flock from miles!
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