‘Most amusing’: Gilbert and George welcome the public to their own gallery

Artists open centre in area of east London where they have lived and worked for decades

Every creative person yearns for a room of their own. But for the stars of Britain's contemporary art world, it seems that now only a venue of their own will do. Last weekend it was Tracey Emin in Margate; on Saturday morning it was the turn of the veteran duo Gilbert and George.

It is very exciting to see so many people," said George Passmore, 81, after the gates swung wide at 10am to let in an orderly queue of first visitors. Most amusing," added his lifelong collaborator - and, since 2008, civil partner - Gilbert Prousch, 79. They will all keep coming along, we hope."