Artists in and around Batheaston are getting ready to open up their studios and homes this autumn - in a real, not virtual way. Plans for the Batheaston Art Trail are well underway, with the first weekend of October now fixed for the exciting community project.
The idea is to offer an event for visitors and residents of all ages, to inspire the artist in all of us by showcasing the amazing talent we have living in our village.
Entry to the trail will be free, and a colourful brochure and map provided to help you find your way from one exhibition venue to another.
Many of the artists will display their work in their own studios and workspaces, giving insight into the making process. With Christmas only a few months away, it might also offer an opportunity to buy a unique gift or two.
Several makers are already on board with the project, and applications welcome from other would-be exhibitors. Textile artist Alison Harper, whose red bicycle-wheel work many people know in Bath will know, will be showing a range of her work, as will printmaker and abstract painter Rob Grieve and ceramic sculptor Clare Day. Bath artists Carole Waller and Gary Wood will also be on the trail, inviting you into their studios on the Box Road, showing Carole’s glass sculptures and fabric paintings along with Gary’s painted stoneware and porcelain ceramics.
Northend resident and artist Piu Bose, who is working alongside these artists to organise the event, explains: “Through the long days of the lockdown, I think we have all learnt how important art and nature are to our wellbeing. We have some fabulous artists in the village, and like the open studios events held in other areas of Bath, we are hoping to attract people from all over the city to their doorsteps. Delaying it til autumn, we hope will ensure a COVID-free safe environment.”
The dedicated team behind Grow Batheaston - the environmental community project set up a year ago - is giving the Batheaston Art Trail a huge helping hand in getting started by offering its expertise and experience, as well as a home on it’s website.
If you are a local artist who would like to exhibit your work on the Batheaston Art Trail, please do contact us on hello@growbatheaston.co.uk. If you do not have the space at home to exhibit there may be an opportunity to share with someone or in a hall.
By Rachel Fixsen, journalist and ceramic artist.