Swindon Open Studios 2011

What to do with this blog?

2012-01-16T15:08:00.000-08:00

This blog is called Swindon Open Studios 2011; it seems outdated in 2012, so I have started another blog:
www.swindonopenstudios.blogspot.com
Ideally I would merge the two blogs under the new title, but will wait until someone can help me with that job.

To give you a taste of the first article, it's on the Edward Burra exhibition at the Pallant House Gallery, www.pallant.org.uk

'Snack Bar' detail 1930 oil on canvas
To have your news featured on the blog, please email:swindonopenstudios@hotmail.co.uk

What a Rediscovery- the Barge Inn at Honey Street is magical

2012-01-12T14:42:00.000-08:00

Parking at Overton Hill near Avebury, it's possible to walk over the tops before dropping down to Stanton St Bernard, and from there walk along the canal to the Barge Inn at Honey Street.
Like many others, I watched the programme about renovating the Barge Inn and reopening it as a community run pub and was keen to see what it was like.

Here is the outside of the pub

The barges on the canal

Two photos of Vince Palmer's ceiling paintings, they need to be viewed in person.

The inside of the pub, it has been beautifully renovated. I sat in a table with the best view of the canal, only possible now the Ladies toilets have been relocated elsewhere.

Bangers and mash with red cabbage and onion gravy- delicious.

And honeyfest is being held on the 14th of April: honeyfestuk.com
The pub's website gives lots of information about the pub and includes a photo of Vince: www.the-barge-inn.com

The walk back was almost due north passing by the Alton Barnes White Horse and onto the old Ridgeway. The sun came out for the first time that day just before it set highlighting the old hill forts and field systems.

The Alton Barnes white horse can almost be seen!

This was the sunset at the end of the walk, the red colour was not picked up by the camera.

What a wonderful day out, The Barge Inn is well worth a visit and best reached on foot or water, but if time is short, take the car.

Filming on the Green in Highworth

2012-01-07T14:47:00.000-08:00

Campaigner Kate as she calls herself has been to Highworth for the BBC's programme 'Inside Out' due to be broadcast on the 17th of January.

It will focus on the conflict between developers and local communities, particularly with regard to village greens.

To find out more about Kate's activities, visit her blog:http://campaignerkate.wordpress.com/2012/01/05/filming-on-the-green/

Kate Ashbrook certainly takes a great interest in our countryside and open spaces.

On the 12th day of Christmas, a chance to reflect on what items Tim sold as presents this year.

2012-01-06T11:51:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year, it's 2012 and this is the last day we have trees, cards and tinsel around the place.
The blog does not advertise the fact we are looking forward and aware it is 2012, but hopefully will do soon.

It was good to see that a number of people thought Tim's paintings and ceramics would make excellent presents, so here's a selection of the sales:

A painting entitled 'The Traveller'- what a beauty

And here is 'The Traveller', comfortably settled in it's new home:

Glorious angels below: more examples are to be found in the Taste Cafe on Victoria Hill.

And two examples of the birds in a tree wall plaques, these are still for sale, but several similar to these were sold.

And last but not least, a ceramic working clock featuring Tim's trademark intertwining figures.

For more information on Tim's paintings, visit www.timcarroll.co.uk

Out with the New-In with the Old an exhibition by Andy Preston

2011-12-31T14:30:00.000-08:00

Andy Preston has an exhibition of art from this Saturday at 12:00am until Tuesday, January 31, 2012 at 11:30pm.
Do have a look, there will be labels there by now. I arrived as Andy was positioning the pictures.

At the Old Merlin Gallery Theatre Square
The work is in the shop window, for more information on Andy, have a look at his website. Photos taken this morning of the work with varying degrees of success due to reflections on the windows:

Edge Effect - Art & Design - Fine Art

www.edge-effect.co.uk

Edge Effect. Electronic music, digital arts, design and production from Andy Preston of Swindon in the U.K

Eric Gill Exhibition at the Wetpaint Gallery in Cirencester- last 4 days!

2011-12-21T03:09:00.000-08:00

The Wetpaint Gallery is currently holding an exhibition of prints of Eric Gill's wood engravings. They are all beautifully framed and for sale.
The gallery also has a well picked selection of work by other artists on display. As a first time visitor, I was delighted by the exhibition space; it's housed in a former chapel, and is intimate, yet large enought to show work off to advantage.
Here are some photos of the Eric Gill prints:

There are several prints of these, they are from a series of 50 nudes; difficult to see here, but fabulous.
For more information on Eric Gill, can I recommend the book 'Eric Gill' by Fiona McCarthy published in 1989, ISBN 0-571-14302-4 by Faber and Faber, now sadly out of print, but obtainable on Amazon.
In case you do not manage to visit the exhibition before Christmas, there will be other interesting exhibitions in 2012 in the Wetpaint Gallery. Here are a few photos of the gallery:

The Wetpaint Gallery is easily reached from the A419 going north, take the second Cirencester turning, not the industrial estate one, turn left off the A419, then go straight ahead at the first roundabout, and the Wetpaint gallery is situated on your left, if you drive past the gallery and take the first left, there is a handy car park to be found there.
Address: The Old Chapel, 14, London Road, Cirencester GL7 1AE
T 01285 644990
E cah@contemporary-art-holdings.co.uk
W www.wetpaintgallery.co.uk

Robbo's Extravaganza at the Beehive tomorrow 19th December

2011-12-18T13:35:00.000-08:00

Monday Dec 19th 7.30pm Robbo's Xmas Charity Extravaganza

- Fundraiser for the Horn Of Africa Famine Apppeal and Swindon Night Shelter

featuring: Good Things Happen In Bad Towns, The NoMarks, Missin' Rosie, Swindon Samba, The Amateurs, Poets, Face Painting, Raffle and more!!

Come along for what promises to be a great night out.
For more information on Christmas at the Beehive: www.bee-hive.co.uk

Lucy's New Studio is now Officially Open

2011-12-17T08:44:00.000-08:00

An invitation to the opening of a studio on almost the shortest Saturday of the winter was too good an opportunity to miss.
Lucy, a recent graduate in Ceramics, has moved back to Swindon and will soon be on the Open Studios circuit we hope.
Her magnificent studio is in the garden, and her impressive kiln is housed next to the tropical fish in the garage.

Long shadows falling outside the studio, and warmth and sunshine inside thanks to the insulation and 500 Watt heater.

Here's Lucy with the kiln, and below the inside of the kiln.

There are always unexpected delights, just look at the cake and mince pie stand beside one of Nicky's mosaics and below two more of Nicky's mosaics. Maybe mother and daughter could have a joint open studio?

And Lucy was wearing one of Tim's art box ceramics as a necklace.
More info at:www.LucyFoakes.com Lucy.J.Foakes@googlemail.com

It's Very Busy in Theatre Square with the Chocolate Museum and the Artsite Shop. Chocolate lovers, this is a must for you.

2011-12-12T09:31:00.000-08:00

The private view of Barham's fascinating installation did not disappoint.
Chris has gone to enormous lengths to put on a brilliant show, sourcing authentic cocoa cultivating and harvesting tools.
There are plenty of different types of chocolate in the exhibition and an ingenious chocolate dispenser enabling chocolate munching during the informative video on chocolate production.
If you missed the private view, it's not too late to see the exhibition, it runs until the 23rd December from 10am-5pm Tuesday - Sunday.

Chris recently did a month long residency in the new gallery in Theatre Square, which was a first for Artsite and Swindon. I do hope you can go along at some point and chat to the artist about his first exhibition since graduating from Swindon college.
Chris is really keen to talk about his work.
www.chrisbarham.net
Here are some photos from the private view:

People gathering around the refreshments

Chris chatting about his work

Some of the chocolate above, and tools below.

Chris and Sally Taylor
In the former Merlin Gallery, there is now an Artsite shop offering wonderful artworks, it's called 'Artiste's Affordable Christmas Exhibition' and runs until the 17th of December. It's open from 11am-4pm except on Wednesdays.

Paintings ....

Pat Elmore's sculptures

Lovely cushions and below Paula Sullivan's fabulous 'Teatime' painting.

http://www.artsite.ltd.uk
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=89034225642
http://myspace.com/artsite

How about a Two Week Sketchbook Journey to Southern India?

2011-12-07T10:20:00.001-08:00

Well how about it? The trip leaves on the 16 February 2012 and returns on 29 February 2012, it has been specially prepared for Maxine Railton who has considerable experience in running these sketching trips to India, by Steppes Travel.

Here is some of the information on the trip:

A SKETCHBOOK JOURNEY TO SOUTHERN INDIA

This very special journey to southern India has been designed for those who wish to experience a fascinating culture with a chance to develop the art of quick and vivid sketches.
During your first week you focus on developing and practising your drawing skills, whilst based at the college campus of SCAD (Social Change and Development). This environment has been chosen as it provides wonderful opportunities for drawing and fascinating insights into SCAD’s impressive work with the rural communities of Tamil Nadu. Part of the cost of your trip will make important contribution to their work
Each day will be led by Maxine Relton as you visit the local initiatives and villages in the area and receive guidance as you choose your subjects to draw.

The second week in contrast is not so focussed on sketching but allows you to travel through the beautiful region of Kerala, experiencing stunning mountains and river scenery which will hopefully continue to inspire you to practise your drawing skills. Maxine will be on hand to assist if need be but in a less structured way than in week one. The journey ends with a few days to relax on Keralan Backwaters.

www.steppestravel.co.uk
www.scad.org.in

Latest News from the Platform and a Hard to Resist Invitation to a double bill on the 22nd

2011-12-06T13:22:00.001-08:00

Bea and I went down to the Platform this morning to meet Paul Ashman, the Music Development Leader, to discuss hiring the magnificent space as a venue again this year.
We agreed to hire the main room, the railway carriage and to use the newly converted space upstairs as a possible 'hands on' art session for young people.
We were also invited to a gig at the Vic. on the 22nd of December to hear the Monkey Dolls and The Raker Project, both Paul's bands. Should be a great evening.

www.thevicswindon.com

I have included adverts for Swindon Young Musicians

Swindon Rock School and the Rock Pod.

Swindon Music Service took over the building in April 2011 with the aim of expanding their offer to include concerts, workshops and activities to keep the love of music buzzing in Swindon. To find out more visit: www.swindonmusicservice.org or ring Paul on 07590 688808
The Platform is the the former Railway Museum on Faringdon Road, SN1 5BJ

Treberfydd Embraces Digital Art with Born Digital Art Awards

2011-12-05T13:16:00.001-08:00

Treberfydd House which hosted a 10 day art exhibition in the summer, has now focused attention on digital art.
The organisers say on their website- 'Born Digital Art Awards is a new competition that will showcase the finest digital art from some of the most exciting and challenging artists worldwide.'
It looks like an interesting prospect for all digital artists, to find out more:
www.borndigitalart.com/

Treberfydd House and grounds.

Kitty and Pete's Wedding Day plaque

2011-12-04T13:20:00.001-08:00

Wedding day pottery figures on a flat pottery background are a wonderful way to commemorate the day. The detail is fantastic.
I've commissioned Tim do make one of our day.

www.timcarroll.co.uk

Coleshill Village shop - what a Gem

2011-12-03T13:37:00.001-08:00

Minna Stevens' exhibition finishes tomorrow, with an afternoon tea from 2pm -4pm in the village shop, but if you miss it, do try and go along another time.
It's well worth a visit, it can easily be found by turning right at the first cross road just as you enter the village from Highworth, the Carpenter's Yard is first on the right. There is plenty of parking and apart from the gallery space, there's a well stocked shop and a cafe.
The post code is: SN6 7PT and tel. 01793 763619
I am hoping we might be able to book the space for Open Studios in 2012.
Have a look at the cafe part and gallery:

And the photo below of the shop

The next four photos show Minna's work, it's now obvious to me that it's hard to see them properly, her website has much better images: www.minnastevens.com

The Chocolate Museum 9th-23rd December, Private View 9th December 5pm-8pm

2011-12-02T02:43:00.001-08:00

Here is Chris Barham's poster advertising his exhibition, you will see an earlier reference in the blog to his work.
www.chrisbarham.net

This is what the Artsite email said:

'Many of you will have noticed and perhaps participated in Chris Barham's residency at the Artsite shops. This month is the culmination of all that work. ( Well perhaps!! one can never be sure that there is a culmination with Chris), His Installation "the Chocolate Museum" will open up on the 9th December, at the Post Modern. You are invited to join Artsite to view this exciting project which has been sponsored by Artsite and The Arts Council at a preview on the 9th December, or visit the Post modern Tuesday to Sunday 10.00am to 5.00pm from the 9th to the 23rd December.

Look forward to seeing you there.'

---------------------------------------
http://www.artsite.ltd.uk
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=89034225642
http://myspace.com/artsite

Swindon Magnetizer- what a brilliant idea!

2011-12-02T01:28:00.001-08:00

This entry is a record of the fact this happened since it's now over, images and comments can be seen on the website. www.swindonmagnetizer.co.uk
The photos were so inspiring, I was sorry not to have been there last weekend, or visited the Wyvern exhibition.
Here's the invitation to join:

And the following photos show the magnets in position :

This is what Sarah said about the event on Tuesday:
Good afternoon my inspired and inspiring friend x
I hope today has brought more sunshine inside than it's managed outside :-)

Well, all the magnets went up on Saturday thanks to some wonderful
volunteers and there is an exhibition of original pictures hanging in
the downstairs bar gallery in the Wyvern Theatre, and they'll be on
display until this coming Thursday. The exhibition is open to the
public during the Wyvern show times and if you go in out of hours you
can often ask at reception and they won't mind you popping down for a
quick "private view" as it were :-)

Thank you so much for your support in this, it's an amazing array of
work we have on show and your contribution enhanced the magnet
collection considerably.

The magnet event itself went well on Saturday, although it was hard to
be every where and see everything I think it went well and there were
only a few magnets left at the end... mostly because they were placed
so high nobody could reach them :-)

There are some pictures (kindly taken by Martin Newman) on flickr
http://www.flickr.com/photos/68930910@N03/sets/72157628159698437/ but
if you have any photos of the event it'd be wicked if you could email
them to me and I'll set up a gallery.

If you haven't already looked there have been some smashing comments
on the Magnetizer website, about works and the project as a whole so
pop along and have a read, or leave you own feedback - I'd love to
hear what you thought about the event and how, if we run in future, we
could make it better :-)

I do hope you found the Magnetizer project a worthwhile and fun
distraction, I know from some of the feedback that I certainly
achieved my main aim of putting a smile on a few faces and a bit of
sparkle into some hearts

Thank you again for taking part and helping the whole thing be the
success that it has been
Bestest wishes and sparkly hugs
sarah x

The Ashmolean's New Galleries of Ancient Egypt and Nubia are Fabulous.

2011-12-01T07:48:00.001-08:00

Last Saturday, 26 November, saw the opening of six new galleries of Ancient Egypt and Nubia. This is the second phase of the Ashmolean's redevelopment, redisplaying the world renowned Egyptian collections and exhibiting many objects that have been in storage for decades.
This £5 million project has received lead support form Lord Sainsbury's Linbury Trust along with Selz Foundation and other trusts and individuals.
The Ashmolean is open Tuesday-Sunday 10am-6pm, has free admission and can be found a bus ride away from Swindon on Route 66, well bus number 66. It's situated 5 minutes from the bus station on Beaumont Street, Oxford, OX1 2PH
T 01865 278 000 www.ashmolean.org
There is also a Claude Lorrain exhibition entitled 'The Enchanted Landscape' running from 6Oct-8Jan. Entry fee to this is £5 until 13December, after that, it's £9/£7

I took 3 photos in the new exhibition, unfortunately I did not make a note of the information given with them, so I'll add the reasons why I photographed them.
The limestone piece above was part of a beautifully carved wall.

This was a gorgeous statue very dramatically displayed and lit.

A beautifully depicted crocodile.

This arts and crafts woodcut was outside the gallery showing musical instruments.

Key Dates for Swindon Open Studios 2012 announced

2011-11-29T07:49:00.001-08:00

'Hay Bales- North Meadow Margaret Sadler
www.corethread.co.uk

I am really excited and pleased to be able to give the key dates for our Open Studios event in 2012:

May 18th from 7.30pm onwards a Promotional Evening, all those interested in joining Open Studios, or finding out more about the event, are welcome. Venue: Artsite, The Post Modern, Theatre Square, SN1 1QN.
June 19th closing date for entries to Open Studios 2012.
August 1st brochure available in hardcopy.
September 7th Launch Party from 7.30pm at Artsite.
September 8th/9th Open Studios weekend 1
September 15th/16th Open Studios weekend 2

We are hoping to have an exhibition for those interested in March, more details to follow.
There will be a slide show at the Promotional Evening, please send JPegs to swindonopenstudios@hotmail.co.uk as soon as you can, it is good to have a stock of new images for posters etc.
More information can be found on our website:www.swindonopenstudios.org.uk

High Quality, Individual Gifts from Christmas Markets in Swindon and Marlborough

2011-11-24T12:22:00.001-08:00

After a successful first Farmers Market co-op stall on the 30th October, at the Outlet Village, we are please to announce that we will be holding another stall on Sunday 27th November.
This month our artisans include:
Vicky South
Dee Levy
Josie Newman
Hannah Moreton
Sue Wigmore
Charlotte Deane
With a mix of textiles, reused materials, glass, and hand crafted cards we hope to be able to cater for all of your Christmas present needs.
If you would like to get involved please email handmadeswindon@gmail.com.

We are also pleased to say that we will be holding a Christmas Market at the New Artsite Gallery Christmas Event on Saturday 3rd December. The New Artsite Gallery is the former Merlin Gallery opposite the Post Modern. During the day along with the Market, there will be a series of drop in workshops for you to join that will get you prepared for Christmas and bring a touch of handmade to your home.
Further details about the event are to follow, but if you would like to get involved in the market please email handmadeswindon@gmail.com

We look forward to seeing you over the next month.
Hannah
Handmade Swindon
www.artsite.ltd.uk

And the Wagon Yard Artists in Marlborough over 4 days:

www.wagonyardartists.co.uk/

TWIGS are holding a special evening on Wednesday 30th November from 6.00pm- 8.00pm at The Olive Tree Cafe within Manor Garden Centre in Cheney Manor Swindon, SN2 2QJ
Enjoy Live Jazz, mince pies, mulled wine and good company.
Find that original gift from a selection of handmade crafts, wreaths, willow products, bird feeders, dried seeds and flowers, festive decorations and vintage tools.
Here are some photos of the gardens taken earlier in the year:

www.richmondfellowship.org.uk

To the Manor Reborn starts tonight, BBC 1 9pm

2011-11-24T10:13:00.001-08:00

Presented by Penelope Keith and Paul Martin, The Manor Reborn sees a team of historians, experts and volunteers reinterpreting 500-year-old Avebury Manor in Wiltshire, putting the country house in to a national and historic perspective. The house will be restored as an immersive experience - it will be one of only a few National Trust properties open to the public where they can touch, sit on and enjoy all aspects of the house.
And it's just up the road.

Simon McKeown will talk about the Marlborough Bibles 25th November, come and find out more.

2011-11-23T22:34:00.001-08:00

TALK on FRIDAY 25TH NOVEMBER at 7.30

at Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, Bath Road, Swindon

This Friday the Friends of Swindon Museum and Art Gallery talk series continues with a visit from Simon McKeown, keeper of antique books at Marlborough College. He is going to talk about the amazing collection of Bibles owned by the college and even bring along some of the collection for us to look at.

Southport Revisited, some gems discovered

2011-11-23T07:23:00.001-08:00

Southport sands were a place where I remember rushing to try and find the sea immediately after arriving, and there are many photos to prove it. Later on I learnt to drive on the sands. Last weekend, it was a wander round after walking from Birkdale, I wanted.
There are many delights to be found, but here are a few:

This bank on Lord Street has one of the finest Corinthian facades according to the plaque on the right of the front door. Shame HSBC have been allowed to detract from it.
It was formerly Preston Bank and has been wonderfully photographed:http://www.panoramio.com/photo/9285945?source=wapi&referrer=www.panoramio.com

Some of the wonderful stained glass in Wayfarer's Arcade.
www.wayfarersarcade.co.uk/historic-wayfarers.htm

Upper floors of BHS in the dark.

Day 2 the good and the brave spoke, and a marvellous article about Swindon

2011-11-17T13:43:00.001-08:00

On Wednesday afternoon, members of the public who had registered their interest in doing so were given time to speak, with the proviso they didn't repeat what others had said.
Jean Saunders spoke first giving a highly illuminating talk about the area, then Mr Wood, Andrew Bennett, Felicity Cobb who talked at length about collecting 18000 out of the 52000 signatures for the petition. Tim French gave a moving presentation about what Coate and it's surroundings means to him, and lastly Adrian Moor talked about traffic and leisure activities conflicting.

Jean has today emailed an article in December 2011's edition of The Oldie page 65 which I thought I'd include:

Unwrecked England

The Richard Jefferies Museum and Landscape, Swindon

Candida Lycett Green

[inset picture of Liddington Hill with caption: Liddington Hill: 'By the time I had reached the summit I had entirely forgotten the petty circumstances and the annoyances of existence' (Richard Jefferies)]

Swindon's Great Western heart is the same as it ever was and the local character of some of the town's centre has stayed intact. For the last few decades however, its anonymous suburbs have sprawled so far that you need to be an orienteer to find your way around the relentless, could-be-anywhere housing developments, industrial estates and clutches of titanic superstores. Vast tracts of farmland as well as woods and copses I knew as a child are now under concrete: whole villages have been swallowed up.

But there is one corner left untouched - the gentle, pastoral landscape which was the inspiration of Swindon’s famous son, Richard Jefferies, one of our greatest country writers and visionaries. 'One day the area will be glorified,' Edward Thomas wrote in his biography of Jefferies, 'It will be known as Jefferies' Landscape and it will be as Selborne was to Gilbert White.'

If you take the very smallest road off the Coate roundabout you can park under trees beside Coate Water, the setting for Jefferies' classic children's book Bevis: The Story of a Boy. 'So we will,' said Bevis, 'we will find a new sea where no one has ever been before. Look! There it is; is it not wonderful?' And it is.

This expansive and gracefully sinuous reservoir was created in the 1820s by the Wilts and Berks Canal Company as a means of topping up the canal. When I went there were dozens of fishermen around its edges, an abandoned 1930s concrete diving board hovering over it, and children flying kites nearby. A new cinder path leads along the familiar hedgeline to Coate Farmhouse where Jefferies was born in 1848 and which is now looked after by Richard Jefferies Society volunteers. Although the adjacent road has now become a dual carriageway, once you are through the front door you feel calm. It is one the nicest museums you could wish for - well loved, cosy and intimate. From the living room there is a view of the mulberry tree mentioned in a poem and the deep shade of the evergreen oak planted by Richard's father. From his study-cum-teenage-bedroom on the attic floor, his simple drop-leaved writing table stands where it always did, by the window which looks onto the orchard and the Sun Inn beyond.

There are letters written by the seven-year-old Richard to his beloved aunt Ellen; photographs of local farm workers squinting against the sun together with the gangly gamekeeper of Burderop Park from whom Jefferies learnt so much; beautiful sketches by his uncle and lots of small oils and watercolours of nearby scenes painted by an early Jefferies groupie. Kate Tryon lived in Massachusetts and was a keen Thoreau enthusiast, but as soon as she read Jefferies she became obsessed. She visited Coate for twelve consecutive years in the early 1900s, following in her hero's footsteps and illustrating his every literary description. The landscape is still magical even though the M4 slices through it a mile or so away. The trees and woods around Day House Farm, along the lane from the Jefferies' smallholding, are just as they were when Tryon painted them. (The farmhouse itself was the home of Jessie Baden, who became Richard's wife: he wrote of their courtship in Greene Ferne Farm). It seems unbelievable that despite the large number of brownfield sites in Swindon, Persimmon and Redrow are appealing to build 900 houses here. It will kill Richard Jefferies' landscape stone dead.

• To join the Richard Jefferies Society visit the website www.richardjefferiessodety.co.uk or call 01793 783040

• Candida Lycett Green's new book Seaside Resorts is now available. , 'If there's a better book to give for Christmas published this autumn, I'd like to see it’: Cressida Connolly, the Spectator.

A Wonderful Opportunity to visit Clevancy this weekend

2011-11-17T00:26:00.001-08:00

The Keevil family and Elizabeth Denny will be at the farm to welcome you, Jane Ross will wrap presents,a nd Mary Smith has some lovely home-made refreshments on offer.
Entrance is £3 for one, £5 for two. Bring a friend to visit this exquisitely located farmhouse with one of the best views around.
Opening times are Friday 18th November 6-9pm
Saturday 19th November 10am-5pm
Sunday 20th November 10am-4pm
There will be a range of over 20 different artists and designer makers.
Funda are being raised for Help for Heroes and the local church, St. Lawrence at Hilmarton.
The address is: Cliffansty Farm, Clevancy, Hilmarton, Nr Calne, SN11 8ST
www.artatclevancy.co.uk

Day 1 of the 6 day Inquiry into the Proposed Coate Water development

2011-11-15T13:37:00.001-08:00

The Inquiry started today at STEAM, you can quietly walk in and out when it's in session, so you don't need to stay all day. Just walk in through the main entrance and turn right and go through the double doors at the end.

This is what Jean Saunders said about the times and detail of what happened today:

You need to know the following:

The Inquiry will be sitting from 9.30am-5pm tomorrow (Wednesday), 10am- 5pm (Thursday) and 9.30am-1pm on Friday.

Next week: Tuesday and Wednesday; 10am-5pm - unless the timetable changes.

Those of you who have asked to speak are now likely to be heard tomorrow afternoon not later as indicated this morning by the Inspector.

The inspector is not Mr Grace but a chap called Geoffrey Hill who was only appointed last Thursday to conduct the Inquiry.

So far we have been hearing the Council’s case – traffic and landscape matters. The developers will present their evidence after us.

Rob Buckland MP has been given the opportunity to be heard on Friday at 9.30am. If you can make it to STEAM, please try to get along to offer moral support.

Lunch break.

Jean Saunders about to be interviewed by the BBC

The Appellants.
STEAM is at Fire Fly Avenue, Swindon, SN2 2EY
Tel: 01793 466637 www.swindon.gov.uk/steam
The Swindon Evening Advertiser link:

http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/news/9363194.Inquiry_into_Coate_Water_begins_today/

Coate Inquiry starts today, please come if possible.

2011-11-15T01:11:00.001-08:00

Home

Welcome to SAVE COATE

Call for Help! YOUR opinions count!!
The Planning Inquiry commences on Tuesday 15 November at 10am at the STEAM Museum, Swindon. Anyone who wishes to speak should attend that day to register their interest to speak. The Inquiry is set to last 6 days.

The proofs of evidence have now been put on Swindon Council's web site along with all the documents related to this planning application.

The proof for the Jefferies Land Conservation Trust can be downloaded as a pdf document (1.5MB) here.

We hope that the public can find the time to support us and Swindon Council in our efforts to convince the Planning Inspector that he should REJECT the planning appeal and not recommend that planning permission should be granted.

Please attend the Inquiry even if you do not wish to speak.

Please pass on this information to everyone you can

HELP US TO SAVE COATE, we can't do it without YOU

Why not visit the Gallery at Coleshill Village Shop?

2011-11-14T00:59:00.001-08:00

'Calves 1-6 weeks old' detail, 52''x42'' oil on canvas 2010
The painting, used as an invitation to her exhibition, gives an idea of Minna Steven's style of painting.
The title of the exhibition is 'Paintings in and around Eaton Hastings', and you can find out more about Minna Steven's work by visiting:www.minnastevens.com
The exhibition is being held at The Gallery at Coleshill Village Shop and Tea Room, Old Carpenters Yard, Coleshill, Oxon., SN6 7PT Tel: 01793 763619
There is a website listed for the Gallery, but it is not working, more information can be found by looking on Google.
The exhibition runs from 31st October until 4th December from 10.30am-4.30pm Monday - Saturday.
There will be a Closing Tea on the 4th December 2-4.30pm

Tribal - the exhibition everyone is talking about. For one week only, a unique opportunity to see some amazing artefacts and pictures from a private collection.

2011-11-12T13:23:00.001-08:00

I was privileged to see this exhibition as it was being put up on Thursday, in readiness for the opening night on Friday.
The photos do not do the exhibition justice, if possible, do go and see it.
It's open from 11am-4pm at The Post Modern, Theatre Square, Swindon, SN1 1QN until the 19th of November.
Mike will be talking about the collection on Wednesday 16th of November, 6.30pm for 7pm.

Mike and Paul moving a plinth into position.

Mike checking the exhibit.
The following photos are of individual exhibits, or general shots of the exhibits. I will add labels after the talk on Wednesday.

To find out more about the gallery visit:

www.artsite.ltd.uk

Christmas Fair at the Arts Centre on Saturday and summer in the garden

2011-11-08T14:06:00.000-08:00

There's an interesting sounding Craft Fair at the Arts Centre this Saturday 12th November:

Christmas Craft Fair

Saturday 12 November 10am-3pm
Start Christmas at Swindon Arts Centre. Buy gorgeous gifts - then treat yourself to some new Christmas decorations or a Christmas cake!
And to get you in the Christmas spirit, print this page* and bring it with you to enjoy a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie at half price - that's just £1.50!

Stalls include:

Handmade Christmas cards
Decorations
Christmas gift baskets
Christmas cakes
Handmade bags
Jewellery
Stained glass
Card making kits
Traditional turned wood items
Mixed media artwork
Knitted items

* You may need to go onto the council's website to print their page.
www.swindon.gov.uk/lc/lc-arts/lc-arts-artscentre/Pages/lc-arts-artscentre.aspx

In contrast to looking forward to mid winter, the garden last Friday looked like this:

The pineapple sage bought as a small plant at the beginning of September, has just started flowering.

The Liquidamber is a fabulous colour.

And this is one of a pair of Red Admirals which were around every day last week.

Chris Barham, an inspirational and exciting artist in residence in Theatre Square

2011-11-07T14:18:00.000-08:00

If you haven't realised there's an artist in residence opposite the Post Modern, now is the time to go and investigate, he's in one of the ex shops, and ready to meet you.
Chris is open between 9am - 5pm for an interactive experience; although he's not going to tell you what to do, there are subtle clues as to how you might be able to interact with his creations.
I won't tell you what I got up to in there, but had great fun, laughed a lot and had quite a sense of achievement that I'd done something new and fun.
I didn't think there was anything to photograph in there yet, but I was wrong.

Here's a photo of Chris so you know who he is in case there's a crowd in there.

Here are some objects to be returned.

Essentially a slide with other distractions.

Another view of the very well made slide.
Chris's details are as follows: www.chrisbarham.net
It's very busy down in Theatre Square at the moment, the extremely successful British Postal museum and Archive exhibition has now been taken down, and will be replaced with Mike Yates' Tribal exhibition which has it's opening night on Friday from 6.30pm. The exhibition runs for a week, so speed is of the essence.
www.artsite.ltd.uk

Why didn't I take notes? A Brilliant talk by Denys Hodson made us proud to live in Swindon

2011-11-05T15:03:00.000-07:00

Denys Hodson talked last night to the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery Friends about the origins of the Swindon Collection of 20th Century art and his role in building it. There was no dozing or snoozing, what he had to say was fascinating, whether it was at which party Desmond Morris met his wife, or the fact a certain artist had to give her talk in a pub because she insisted on smoking throughout her talk.
He went on to discuss some of his particular favourite paintings, and here I will refer to the book on the Swindon Collection (ISBN 1 871853 02 8) available from the Museum shop:

On the front cover, Ivon Hitchens, 'Spring in Eden'
Gillian Ayres 'Florestan' Denys loves because of it's vibrant colours.Page 172
John Bellany's 'Self Portrait with Juliet' because of it's exquisite sadness and wonderful expressions on the faces.Page175
David Bomberg's 'The South East Corner, Jerusalem' because he was stationed there in the war, knows the view and thinks it's beautifully depicted. 'There's nothing wrong with a chocolate box done well' is I think what he said. Page 176
Henry Moore 'Three Woman and a child' Page 185
Tom Phillips 'Play: Here we Exemplify' Page 133 Denys said this was very cleverly done and could not face the accusation of being capable of being painted by a three year old.
Hopefully we will be able to hear Denys again before long.
Click here to see the photographs taken last night:www.FriendsofSMAG.blogspot.com

Tribal an Exhibition of Tribal and Contemporary Art 11th - 19th November

2011-11-01T14:33:00.000-07:00

This exhibition including work by Picasso, Joan Miro, Peter Howson, John Bellamy, Alan Davie, Max Ernst and unknown artists from Africa and the South Pacific is at the Post Modern, Theatre Square, Swindon, SN1 1QN
from the 11th -19th November 11am - 4pm.

There will be a talk about the collection on Wednesday 16th November, 6.30 for 7pm.

This is what Mike and Emma say about their exhibition:

 TRIBAL – A SELECTION OF TRIBAL AND CONTEMPORARY ART FROM A PRIVATE WILTSHIRE COLLECTION.
 A work of art has value only in so far as it quivers with reflections of the future.
 André Breton
The works in this exhibition are part of a private collection that has been lovingly assembled

 over the past thirty years. To begin with our emphasis was on tribal art of Africa, but this soon

 spread out to include tribal works from all over the globe. Realising that many early 20th

century painters and potters had been influenced by tribal art, we began to seek out works

by more contemporary artists who had also been influenced by African andOceanic art-works.

 Interestingly, many of the artists whose work we collect have been influenced by Surrealism.

This is perhaps not too surprising when we realize that many of the early Surrealists,

 including André Breton, Tristan Tzara, Max Ernst and Man Ray, also collected tribal art.

Today we have no real idea as to how many art pieces we now have. We only know that we

 cannot display them all in our home and so we are pleased that others will be able to share

 some of them with us, if only for a short time. One of our favourite quotations comes from

 the late David Kidd, a man who amassed a truly great collection of oriental art. “Having a lot

 of money,” he said, “and using it to buy great pieces of art on the world market – anyone

can do that. Not having money, but still being able to buy great pieces – that’s fun.” And so

it is!

A List of the Paintings discussed by Denys Hodson on Friday 4th of November at 7.30pm

2011-11-01T12:34:00.000-07:00

This talk will be held at the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery at 7.30pm.

It is not permissible to reproduce the paintings in the exhibition without paying a fee, I have therefore photographed my glass plate made by Sue Wigmore for the Parallel Lives exhibition held by Artsite at the Post Modern in 2010.
It was her response to the Howard Hodgkin painting, apologies for not having it quite the right way up

Here is a list of paintings in the exhibition:

Julian Trevelyan  The Potteries
L.S. Lowry   Winter in Pendlebury
Augustus John   W.B. Yeats
Sir George Clausen  The Reapers
Lucian Freud   Girl with Fig Leaf
Gwen John   Portrait of a Lady
Leonard McComb  Elizabeth Cooper in her wedding dress
Raymond Mason  Ginette Neveu
Walter Richard Sickert Study for Vernet's. Dieppe
Sir William Rothenstein Barn at Far Oakridge
Mark Lancaster   Cambridge, July 1969
Lisa Milroy   Small Objects
Richard Hamilton  Interior Study (a)
Richard Long   Two Walks
Tom Phillips   Play: Here We Exemplify
Richard Smith   Once
Gillian Ayres   Florestan
Vanessa Bell   Nude with Poppies
John Skeaping   Study (Roe Deer)
Kenneth Martin   The Bed
Duncan Grant   Standing Woman
Ben Nicholson   Composition in Black and White
Michael Ayrton   Roman Window
Maggie Hambling  Descent of the Bull's Head
John Bellany   Self Portrait with Julia
Edward Wadsworth  Bright Intervals
Terry Frost   Grey Red and Black Verticals
Howard Hodgkin  Gramophone
William Turnbull  Mask
David Bomberg   The South-East Corner, Jerusalem
Ivon Hitchens   Spring in Eden
Henry Moore   Three Women and a Child
Cecil Collins   The Sibyl
Graham Sutherland  Landscape with rocks
Stephen Tomlin  Virginia Woolf
Christopher Le Brun  Hyperion
Leon Kossoff   Booking Hall No.6
William Roberts  Study for 'Bank Holiday in the Park'
Hubert Cook   Electric Welder
Jack Smith   Night Sky

I have a glass plate  made by Sue Wigmore for the Parallel Lives exhibition held by Artsite

 at the Post Modern, it gives you a good idea of the strength of the Howard Hodgkin painting

 'Gramophone'

The Bath Prize Winner has just been announced, it's Chris Dunn with his magnificent 'Magpie in George Street'

2011-10-25T15:12:00.000-07:00

Great excitement this morning when Tim came back from Inkspot, the artist's materials shop in Swindon and said he'd met this year's Bath Prize winner, Chris Dunn.
Chris has not appeared on this blog despite living in Calne, and working in Swindon. How have we missed him?
His entry 'Magpie in George Street' is a watercolour:

And here is Chris standing with the picture and the Mayors of Bath.

To find out more about Chris and how he works, visit:chrisdunnillustration.blogspot.com
There is still just time to visit the exhibition of entrants to the Bath Prize at the Octagon, Milsom Street, Bath; it runs until the 27th of October and is open from 10am - 5pm.
On Friday 28th of October, there will an auction of the paintings at 7pm. To find out more, including how to make a telephone bid, visit www.wessexauctionrooms.co.uk

This was the third year the Bath Prize has been held, it's definitely something to consider entering in 2012, watch the website for details of next year's event and to find out more about this year's entries visit: www.thebathprize.co.uk
It's a brilliant concept, and has worked very well in Bath.

Looking at the entries, I was drawn to Andrew Taylor's entry of Sion Hill allotments which I visited in early summer with a friend who has a wonderfully diverse allotment there.

Post Office in Pictures Family Fun Days this week at The Post Modern

2011-10-24T13:20:00.000-07:00

Come toThe Post Office in Pictures during half-term for a host of free family activities:

Details of the family fun days:

The Post Office in Pictures Family Fun Days – Wednesday 26^th and Thursday 27^th October 2011 – 11am to 4pm
The Post Modern, Theatre Square, Swindon. SN1 1QN.

Activities include:

· Put yourself in the Picture and create your own magazine front cover with you as the star! Use real post office uniforms for added authenticity.

· Finger Puppet Postmen Create your own mini postmen from felt, make a cap badge or armband based on what you can see in the exhibition. Real objects will be available to handle for added inspiration.

· CompetitionWhy not bring along your camera to the fun day and take part in our photographic scavenger hunt? Pick up the clues from the Post Modern, search Swindon for the postal items and snap as many as you can, and then return to the gallery to record your time – the fastest family over the two days will win a fantastic prize!

Events start at 11.00am and end at 4.00pm on each day

Cost & Booking
Free entry. This is a drop in event. No booking is necessary.
www.artsite.ltd.uk

Ooops, not keeping up, it's The Big Draw tomorrow at Artsite

2011-10-21T12:10:00.000-07:00

People of all ages are invited to join Artist Maria Holohan and other Artsite members for a FREE drop-in drawing workshop to create a mural inspired by the recent graffiti project in Bristol called 'See No Evil'.

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/culture/culturepicturegalleries/8711647/The-See-No-Evil-graffiti-project-in-Bristol-Britains-largest-street-art-project.html

Everyone is invited to participate – whatever their age, ability, drawing preferences or skills. Visit the website for full information on the Campaign - www.campaignfordrawing.org

This Friday 4th November- Denys Hodson will talk about the Swindon Collection

2011-10-17T14:33:00.000-07:00

I posted a piece about the fabulous exhibition currently at the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery on the 24th April this year.
The exhibition is called 'Builder's Choice' selected by Denys Hodson, Director of Arts and Rec. in Swindon 1972-1992.
Denys Hodson who is a key figure in the development of Swindon's knock out art collection will give a talk at the Museum and Art Gallery in Bath Road on the 4th of November at 7.30pm about the Swindon Collection.
It's a must for anyone interested in contemporary art.
The event is being staged by the Friends of the Museum and Art Gallery. FSMAG for short. it's worth considering becoming a friend to support this wonderful facility, for more details, visit the gallery, or come along to the evening.
The Friend's AGM was held last Friday, the photos were taken rather late on as we were clearing up, but better than no visuals.

I've scanned an application form for the Friends, benefits of becoming a member include talks, trips and a Journal several times a year.

Leland Bardwell's Sell out Success at the Blue Gate's Poetry Evening

2011-10-14T10:21:00.000-07:00

What a brilliant time was had by all who attended the Blue Gate Poets special evening with guest playwright, poet and writer Leland Bardwell.
As we rounded the corner into Bath Road, the sound of bagpipes could be heard from outside the Museum,heralding the evening.

It was a real Bardwell event with Jackie, Leland's daughter reading one of her poems, and Erin Bardwell, Leland's grandson playing 'Groundwell Farm' composed by Erin, it was a reminder of the days when he grew up at Groundwell Farm and like their parties, didn't seem to have an ending. His second composition, 'Fry Up' was inspired by his other Grandmother's talk of fry ups which he doesn't remember her ever cooking.
I bought a copy of Leland's book of poetry:

As it says on the back cover 'Her work has humour and wit..It has the immediacy of conversation, yet is crafted with care and form.

The Blue Gate Poets Meet on Thursday 13th October - Special Guest Leland Bardwell

2011-10-11T12:39:00.000-07:00

Blue Gate Poets have invited well known Irish poet and writer, Leland Bardwell to their celebratory evening on Thursday at 7.30pm at the Swindon Museum and Art Gallery, Bath Road, Old Town, SN1 4BA. Tickets £3/£5 on the door.
With support from local poets and musicians, it's an evening not to be missed.
Here's a copy of the invitation:

It does say, among other things, that the Book below 'Different Kinds of Love' won the Literary Award in Turkey in 2010.

This is my copy of Leland's book, can I read all the stories before Thursday evening?
www.bluegatepoets.com

Lacock Abbey, the sphinx and some grapes

2011-10-08T13:14:00.000-07:00

Lacock Abbey and village never fails to provide some interest, from the cyclamen around the base of the large tree on the right:

To the first view of the abbey:

and then on your left, the sphinx, much photographed by Fox-Talbot in 1840

A walk around the walled garden reveals a greenhouse with gorgeous green and black grapes.

Tim wanted a photo of these for some reason.

For opening times etc: www.nationaltrust.org.uk

The Post Office in Pictures Exhibition Private View Photos

2011-10-06T13:58:00.000-07:00

What a brilliant evening at the PostModern last night, the exhibition has been displayed interestingly with photographs mounted on opened cardboard boxes attached to white screens attached together around the room in a zig-zag manner.
Lots of people turned up, including two very interesting philatelists, the food was delicious and beautifully presented.

With each photograph, was some text explaining the practice used by the Post Office at that time, this one as you might guess is a Post Office van that doubles up as a bus. There are postcards available of most of the photographs.

People looking at the photographs and PO magazines.

Front covers of Post office magazines.

The canapes and chocolate brownies.

Bill and Tim talking on the left.
The exhibition runs until the 5 November and is open from 11am - 5pm daily except Sundays.
www.postalheritage.co.uk
www.artsite.ltd.uk

If you go down to Theatre Square today for the Big Opening, you're in for a big surprise

2011-10-05T06:54:00.000-07:00

This evening sees the opening of The Post Office in Pictures exhibition courtesy of the British Postal Museum and Archive. www.postalheritage.org.uk

The private view is between 5-pm this evening, the exhibition runs until 5 November and is open from 11am - 5pm daily Monday- Saturdays.
The big surprise is as the result of consultations reported earlier in the year, we now have plants in beds. They look superb, incorporate seating areas between and amidst the plantings, and will be watered by a hose pipe attached to a tap situated just inside Artsite door. I have already seen an SBC employee engaged in watering.
The following photos show the bed outside Artsite door being assembled by 10 (?) people, and the resulting bed when finished:

It was difficult to show all the people engaged in working in this small area because they shielded each other

These are the groups responsible for the regeneration of Theatre Square.

Two views of the bed outside Artsite with posties in the background.

This bed is directly outside the Wyvern Theatre, I was lucky with the three men walking behind the bed with their shopping.

This bed is beside the Wyvern Theatre. As you can see, it's definitely worth a look, it may not be what we suggested at the consultation afternoon, but it looks good.

Latest Photos of Avebury Manor on Sunday 2 October

2011-10-05T02:03:00.000-07:00

The latest copy of the National Trust magazine has an article about the restoration of the manor house and kitchen garden. A series about the the restoration will appear on BBC television before Christmas, it will be titled 'To the Manor Reborn' and be presented by Penelope Keith and Paul Martin who were present at the barbecue on Sunday.

People enjoying the garden and food.

The bed seen empty on Thursday when I weeded it, now planted.

The grounds of Avebury Manor are stunning. This photo shows some gorgeous dahlias.
www.nationaltrust.co.uk/avebury

Avebury Manor Walled Garden, grand opening on Sunday 2 October

2011-09-29T15:05:00.000-07:00

The restoration of the Victorian walled garden at Avebury Manor has been taking place since March with National Trust volunteers; the transformation has been filmed by the BBC who will produce a series due to be shown on TV before Christmas.
Volunteers have worked hard to restore the garden to it's former glory, which will be open for all to see on Sunday 2 October at 12 noon when everyone is invited to a BBQ. Parts of the house have also been restored.
On the hottest recorded 29 September, here are some photos taken of the garden and some very hot volunteers.

Marigolds in the foreground and the fabulous new greenhouse in the background.

This is a partially dug and weeded bed which contained a surprising amount of weeds.

The newly laid lawn had to be watered well today to help it establish.

http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/main/w-vh/w-visits/w-findaplace/w-avebury/w-visit-avebury_filming-at-avebury-manor.htm

Ken White's Open Studio Photos

2011-09-28T13:35:00.000-07:00

Ken and Tim discuss paintings shown below, or the one in production maybe?

Paintings on the right hand side of the studio..

And on the left hand side.

Ken and Tim looking at something.
Anyone who has visited Ken's studio knows how fascinating a place it is. It was great that he allowed visitors to view it on the weekends of Open Studios.
www.kenwhitemurals.co.uk

Marden Henge Revealed on Friday 30th September at 7.30pm

2011-09-27T12:29:00.000-07:00

The Friends of the Swindon Museum and Art gallery (fsmag), are holding a talk at the Museum and Art gallery by Jim Leary, an archaeologist with English Heritage on excavations at the largest Neolithic henge monument in Britain: Marden, located in the Vale of Pewsey. It's sheer size is astounding, it's reputedly ten times larger than Stonehenge.
To find out more, come along on Friday night. Tickets £4.50 (£3.50 for members of the Friends.) Discounts for bulk buying tickets.
Phone 01793 466556 for more information, it should not be necessary to buy tickets in advance.

This is an aerial photo of the henge.
To find out more:www.english-heritage.org.uk/professional/research/landscapes-and-areas/national-mapping-program

Invitation to a Private View at Artsite on the 5th of October

2011-09-26T14:46:00.000-07:00

Here's a photograph showing part of the invitation to the opening of the British Postal Museum's exhibition which celebrates iconic photographic images sourced from the Royal Mail Archive.
If you can't attend the Private View, you can still see the exhibition, it runs from the 6th October- 5th November and is open from 11am-5pm daily except Sundays.

And the written invitation emailed to all on Artsite's mailing list:

Dear All,

You’re cordially invited to the Private View of the BPMA’s upcoming exhibition,The Post Office in Pictures – taking place between 5pm and 8pm on Wednesday 5^th October 2011 at The Post Modern Gallery in Swindon. Please refer to the attached invitation for details, or visithttp://postalheritage.org.uk/page/inpictures for more information on the exhibition itself.

We’d appreciate it if you could RSVP via email to rsvp@postalheritage.org.uk or by telephone to 020 7239 2037.

Hope to see you there!

Andy.

Andy Richmond

Access and Learning Manager

The British Postal Museum & Archive

Tel: 020 7239 2568

Fax: 020 7239 2576

The British Postal Museum and Archive

Freeling House, Phoenix Place, London. WC1X 0DL.

www.postalheritage.org.uk

***Find out what The British Postal Museum & Archive is doing right now – follow us on Twitter:http://twitter.com/postalheritage***

eBay user? Why not support the BPMA at the same time? Visit theThe British Postal Museum & Archive eBay for Charity page to find out how.

British postal communications helped to shape the modern world. The British Postal Museum & Archive works to make this human story of communication, industry and innovation accessible to everyone.

World's Biggest Coffee morning - Macmillan Cancer

2011-09-25T10:26:00.000-07:00

Debbie Cox and Gill Graham emailed this poster inviting people to a Macmillan Evening on the 29th of September 7pm onwards, and a coffee morning on the 30th September from 9.30am - 2pm both events are at 125, Croft Road the next day. They will be selling their Mezzaluna bags. 50% of the proceeds go to Macmillan Cancer.
Apologies for the problems with the print size on the poster.
Please email Debbie and Gill if you have any queries:mezzaluna311@gmail.com
www.mezzaluna.org.uk
To find out more about the coffee mornings:coffee.macmillan.org.uk is the link, but it's not working at the moment.

The Platform photos kindly provided by Benoit

2011-09-23T02:49:00.000-07:00

Firstly, here is the painting Benoit produced over the 2 weekends of Open Studios at the Platform. It's 'Pause-Cafe'; I copied it from his blog:myfrencheasel.blogspot.com

Here is Carmen with her mixed media paintings, collages and mixed media art quilts. www.carmenbnorris.com

This is Media 7s display. Media 7 are a group of like minded artists including creative design, paintings, mixed media art and creative design.

Carole's work with the picture displayed in the brochure just visible. www.carolehumphreys.com

Gavin's work on the stage.
www.gavin-salisbury.com

Here is Benoit's display.
www.benoitphilippe.com
www.twitter.com/myfrencheasel

And here is the magnificent building, with cottages of the Railway Village dwarfed by the former Railway Museum now housing Swindon Music Service and currently undergoing another phase of refurbishment on the first floor.
www.swindonmusicservice.org

Mollie Gratland and Melinda Smith's Open Studio Photos

2011-09-22T15:10:00.000-07:00

Mollie and Melinda shared Melinda's new studio in her back garden in Wroughton.
If you can click on the photos to enlarge them, you can see what a wonderful array of work they had in there.

Maggie Harris's Open Studios Photos

2011-09-21T08:26:00.000-07:00

Maggie has kindly emailed a couple of photos of her studio and said she enjoyed her experience and would like to take part in 2012 Swindon Open Studios!!
The big question she asks though is how to engage with more of the local population, ie. how to get more people visiting who we don't know who have come because they looked at the brochure and said 'That looks good'.
Any ideas?

To see Maggie's blog:www.stitchingwithschnauzerandsiamese.blogspot.com

Tim Carroll's Open Studios Photos

2011-09-19T14:29:00.000-07:00

Here are some photos of Tim's work displayed around the house:

In the kitchen, birds in a tree and a head with red spots. And a box with 2 heads in ready for posting.

Some of the landscapes and the three heads painting.

The bookshelf, innovation and enterprise picture and the dancers.

In the studio with a new painting emerging.

On the stairs, boats and intertwining figures are hard to photograph successfully.

Tim's website:www.timcarroll.co.uk

Please send any photos you may have of Open Studios for inclusion in the blog
I should have added, please send any comments you may have had. Rachel Coyle's jewellery in the library generated a fab response on this blog:http://urbanfashiontwat.blogspot.com/2011/09/xoxo To find the write up, you will need to Google 'urbanfashiontwat'

Ray Ward's Pop up Museum - it's the Final Day Tomorrow

2011-09-16T15:08:00.000-07:00

For the last 7 days, Ray has had an intruigingly different exhibition each day.
Yesterday he showed a video taken at the Richard Jefferies Museum featuring an interview conducted with Jean Saunders about Richard Jefferies.
I took photos of his posters:

And the jackdaws on the chimney pots from the video.
Ray's 8th pop up gallery will be showing tomorrow with Ray in attendance. It will be well worth a look.
www.wiltshirepopup.blogspot.com is the blog Ray has created to accompany his pop up gallery. You can watch the video there.

St Margaret's Road Open Studios this weekend

2011-09-16T13:38:00.000-07:00

There are two studios open on St. Margaret's Road.
Jane at number 45, is sharing her house with Tara renowned for her landscapes and chickens, and Lucy who has many talents.
www.janemilner-barry.co.uk
www.taraparkerwoolwayartist.co.uk
www.facebook.com/lulubpaper
This is a venue well worth visiting.
Jane says:
'My utility room transformed into a gallery, and my studio transformed into a . . . proper studio!'

The utility room

And the proper studio

At number 52, St Margaret's Road, Tim was busy applying glazes to pottery heads this evening. He will be ready to welcome visitors for part of tomorrow, and all of Sunday. We have our grandson's naming ceremony between 1.35-4.30pm tomorrow, but will stay open for longer to accommodate anyone who wants to chat to Tim. The studio will be open from 11-6pm
To have a preview:www.timcarroll.co.uk

Tim in his studio this evening.

Brother Jem at the benefit gig in the Beehive last night wearing a monocle.

Swindon Open Studios in Wroughton, venues 4, 5 and 6

2011-09-16T06:56:00.000-07:00

This weekend do try and go to Wroughton to see Chris and Bea at Wroughton library between 10am-1pm.
Mollie Gratland and Melinda Smith will be in Melinda's studio in the back garden of 22, Devizes Road. They both had last year off from Open Studios and are back by popular demand.
Prospect Hospice's day patients have an exhibition of their work, Susie Carr has kindly sent me a few photos of their exhibition:

www.prospect-hospice.net

The Second Open Studios weekend is almost upon us, don't miss out, come along.

2011-09-15T13:10:00.000-07:00

Benoit Philippe has sent images and a message on behalf of the Platform participants.

'Last week-endand the next, 15 artists are showing their work at The Platform, as part of theSwindon Open Studios.

Come and seethem.

17 and 18September 2011

The Platform(Ex railway museum),
Faringdon Road,
SN1 5ED Swindon'

Here is Carmen with her work.

This is Carole Humphries' work

Gavin Salisbury's work

Media 7s work

Benoit's work and his invitation below:

And here is the outside of the Platform on Faringdon Road.

Fred Blunt's exhibition at the Arts Centre

2011-09-15T01:07:00.000-07:00

Fred will not be around this weekend, so is taking his exhibition down today, last chance to see the exhibits has now gone, please contact Fred if you would like to buy some of his work for your children, grandchildren, or yourself.
Fred has taken a set of photos of the exhibition as well, the link to his blog is:
http://fredblunt.blogspot.com/2011/09/exhibition.html

Framed originals and prints on foam board shown from an angle because the stairs are in the way, maybe that would have been a good vantage point...

The man on the right is wearing a Tshirt which says 'More to love'

I think this gives a good idea of the work on display although it's a bit hazy because I think it was such a sunny day when I took the photograph.

This is the 'Tumbling Dog' which I bought for Alex's first birthday. Dog was his first word.
To buy any of these items, do email/ring Fred.

Studio: 01793 574497 / Mobile: 07929 382837

Email: fred@blunt-illustration.co.uk

Web: www.blunt-illustration.co.uk

www.flickr.com

Gordon's Wonderful Signage outside the Studios

2011-09-13T10:22:00.000-07:00

Fab eh?
Try and get along to see Toni and Gordon Dickinson's studios, they are venue 27 at 87, Pavenhill, Purton, SN5 4DA
www.pavenhillsculptures.com

Vicky's photos of the Launch on 9.9.11

2011-09-12T15:06:00.000-07:00

Here are some of Vicky's photos from the launch party.

Thank you for these Vicky. More can be seen on the Swindon Open Studios Facebook page.

Open Studios Launch at Artsite 9.9.11

2011-09-10T04:58:00.000-07:00

A brilliant time was had by all at the launch event last night.
Thank you to all those who came and made it such a special event.
Now the first day of Open Studios is under way, I can't wait for some visitors to arrive.
Here are some photos taken last night:

The exhibition of member's work will be open 11am til 5pm until the 24th of September.
Vicky Silver has also put some super photographs on Facebook.
Here are some photos Maggie Harris has emailed:

Maggie is at Venue 23 she lives at 3, Nolan Close, St Andrews Ridge, SN25 4GP
www.stitchingwithschnauzerandsiamese.blogspot.com

Fred Blunt's Evening Advertiser article is in today!!

2011-09-08T02:26:00.000-07:00

What a brilliant article about Fred in the Evening Advertiser today by Flicky Harrison. I do hope lots of people will go along on Saturday the 10th of September between 11am- 5pm to see him.
Here's the article, although it's small, you can buy the Adver or go on line: www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk

Fred's details are:

Studio: 01793 574497 / Mobile: 07929 382837

Email: fred@blunt-illustration.co.uk

Web: www.blunt-illustration.co.uk

www.flickr.com
Fred has also now got a blog:
fredblunt.blogspot.com/

Emma Butt's contact details are:

Emma Butt

Independent Usborne Organiser: Divisional Leader

Winner of the Stephen Cartwright Award for Excellence...

Join us, make money, make a difference & have fun!

WIN £100 OF BOOKS : SPOT ME IN OUR FILM : GET PAID TO PARTY

Email me: emma@mylittleyellowduck.co.uk

Call me: 01844 214 739 / 07974 230 898

Or for more information online: www.mylittleyellowduck.co.uk
And here's Fred's poster:

The Artsite exhibition is on the walls, here's a Preview taken from Facebook

2011-09-07T15:11:00.000-07:00

How exciting, I do hope we have lots of people coming along to celebrate the launch of Open Studios, and the Artsite exhibition of member's work.
The Evening Advertiser have said they might not be able to send a photographer, but will publish pictures if we email them some.

Art in Gardens and Art in Houses with wonderful Gardens

2011-09-06T00:04:00.000-07:00

We have some inspirational artists making art for gardens, if you want wonderful garden sculptures, a visit to Pat Elmore and Sharon Rich, venues 1&2 will delight.
Also Gordon Dickinson, venue 27 in Purton will give you some great ideas for garden sculptures. Toby Robson has not been able to put any of his large pieces at the Beehive, venue 16, but it's well worth asking what he has available.
I recently visited Lady Farm for a Rare Plant Fair, they had the most wonderful garden with fabulous sculptures:

There were more lovers around the garden.

You might just be able to see large birds in the stream.

A lovely waterfall.
The post code for Lady Farm is: BS39 4NN
The final rare plant fare of the year is on the 18th of September near Abergavenny, but to find out about plant fairs next year: www.rareplantfair.co.uk

Last Saturday, the Friends of Swindon Museum and Art Gallery went for a guided tour of Rodmarton Manor, led by Sarah, great great grand daughter of Claud Biddulph who commissioned Ernest Barnsley in 1909 to build the house. The brochure advertises 'The English Arts and Crafts movement at its best is here', which is true, it's splendid.

The front of Rodmarton Manor

and part of the garden leading to the summerhouse.
To join the Friends, please print out the form below and send it to the museum.

Toby Robson's Exhibition at the Beehive opens Sunday 4th September at 8pm

2011-09-03T14:52:00.000-07:00

This is the first Open Studios event, do try and pop in to the Beehive for a drink and a look at Toby's new work.
Here are my 3 favourites:

www.blackandwhitecasting.co.uk
www.bee-hive.co.uk

Article in the Adver, meeting at the Platform and Fred Blunt's Dates

2011-09-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

The Swindon Evening Advertiser, published an informative article about Open Studios, the full text and picture of Theresa Dowdeswell appears on the website under 'Publicity 2011' www.swindonopenstudios.org.uk
Here's just the photo:

Here's a link to the article:

http://www.swindonadvertiser.co.uk/news/local/9225575.Event_gives_public_rare_chance_to_view_work/

Evening Advertiser details: www.swindoneveningadvertiser.co.uk

And here below is the interior of the Platform:

The group of artists exhibiting at the Platform on Faringdon Road met yesterday to discuss how they will arrange their work. There will be 13 artists on the 10th/11th and 15 artists on the 17th/18th of September.
In this picture, from left to right we can see Paul Ashman, Benoit Philippe and Carmen B Norris. To find out more about the Platform visit:www.swindonmusicservice.org

And here is a copy of Carmen B Norris's flyer for Open Studios
www.carmenbnorris.com

Fred Blunt's exhibition at the Arts Centre will run from 10th September until the 16th September inclusive. Fred will be at the Arts Centre with Emma Butt form Usborne books from 11am - 5pm on the 10th September, for the rest of the time when the Arts Centre is open, you will be able to view his work on the balcony.

Studio: 01793 574497 / Mobile: 07929 382837

Email: fred@blunt-illustration.co.uk

Web: www.blunt-illustration.co.uk

www.flickr.com

Emma Butt

Independent Usborne Organiser: Divisional Leader

Winner of the Stephen Cartwright Award for Excellence...

Join us, make money, make a difference & have fun!

WIN £100 OF BOOKS : SPOT ME IN OUR FILM : GET PAID TO PARTY

Email me: emma@mylittleyellowduck.co.uk

Call me: 01844 214 739 / 07974 230 898

Or for more information online: www.mylittleyellowduck.co.uk

Two Lovely Posters for the Launch Party on the 9th of September from 7.30pm onwards

2011-09-01T02:06:00.000-07:00

Hope to see you there.

Vicky says:
'Artsite and the Post Modern are supporting the Swindon Open Studios Launch at the Post Modern Gallery on Friday 9th September 2011 at 7.30. The Artsite studios will be open to the public on Sat 10th & 17th and Sun 11th & 18th Sept from 11.00am to 5.00pm. An exhibition of Artsite associates, will also be on view from Friday 9th Sept to Saturday 24th Sept.'

We're in September's edition of the Handy Mag on Page 12!

2011-08-30T11:29:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to Jane who emailed the Handy Mag and got the following article in there:

The text is a bit small to read here, but it does show Deb Battaglia's painting off to very good effect.
We're also listed in the What's On page (30)
Thank you to the Handy Mag.
thehandymag@tiscali.co.uk

Invitation to the Launch of Open Studios on the 9th of September at 7.30pm at the Post Modern, Theatre Square SN1 1QN

2011-08-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

The Launch party should be a good night with lots of participating artists, their friends and people who want to find out more about the event coming along.
There will be a group exhibition of work by Artsite members on display.

Hope to see you there.
With thanks to Helen Flinders who provided the image.
helenflinders12@gmail.com

Photographs of Gordon's Party at Walcot Chapel

2011-08-28T15:02:00.000-07:00

There were quite a few of us who braved the torrential rain on Friday night to join Gordon in Bath.

Paintings on the walls, sculptures down the centre of the chapel and suspended from the ceiling on ingeniously placed wires.

The entertainment in the form of the Costellos. Kat Saunders played and sang before them.

And this is what it looked like outside.

There is a suspended boid and Paul Ricketts showing his reflective jacket.
Sarah Checksfield has a joint exhibition at Walcot Chapel this week.

Richard Jefferies Festival Launch Photos 24th August 6.30pm at the Post Modern

2011-08-26T02:00:00.000-07:00

We met to celebrate the launch of the festival with wine and nibbles, and a preview of Jefferies inspired paintings by David Brackston.
Here are a few photographs of the evening:

Mike Pringle, organiser of the Richard Jefferies Festival having a few words.

David Brackston thanking everyone for coming to the preview.

Close ups of David's paintings, not shown in their best light, please go and have a look at his exhibition at the Post Modern, Theatre Square, Swindon, it runs until 5pm on Saturday 27th of August.
Lynette Thomas took some great photographs, these can be found by clicking on this link:https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10150266614637805.333222.663457804&l=823420b3ed&type=1
David can be contacted via email at: david@brax.org.uk
Website:www.brax.org.uk
To find out more about the festival, please visit:www.richardjefferies.org/festival

Toby Robson's exhibition at the Beehive, latest news!!

2011-08-24T07:59:00.000-07:00

I met Toby this morning to discuss his Open Studios exhibition at the Beehive.
There will be a launch of his exhibition on the 4th of September, more details to follow such as time etc.
Toby will spending some time in the pub during the two weekends, again more details soon.
In the meantime here are 3 pieces of his work:

Here's what Toby says:

Toby Robson is an artist based in Old Town who specialises in cast metal sculpture. He will be displaying a selection of works down at The Beehive pub. "As I'm limited to wall space, I'm fairly limited by what I can display, which has forced me to try some new ideas. Part of the exhibition will include some totally new canvasses I've been working on which I call my 'MaGArt' range - they're non figurative and organic pieces in acrylic. In addition, I shall also be showing some Plate castings in iron and aluminium, plus a couple of three dimensional pieces". Come and have a look. If you're interested - I'd love to meet you and talk over the work.
www.blackandwhitecasting.co.uk

Come Along to Gordon's Big Art Day at Walcot Chapel on Friday 26th August 5.00 - 9.30pm

2011-08-23T10:35:00.000-07:00

This was what he said on Facebook:

Time	Friday, August 26 · 5:00pm - 9:30pm

Location	Walcot Mortuary Chapel, Walcot Street, Bath

Created By	Gordon Dickinson

More Info	another show at the chapel in bath, this time it's just me. I'll be showing a bunch of new stuff and some of my favourite older pieces. sculpture, paintings, video and hopefully, live music everything will be on sale .... but don't think i'm reducing my prices just because there's a bloody credit crunch on! there will be some complimentary drinks and nibbles .... but my advice is either get there before it all gets guzzled up by the guzzlers (you know who you are) or bring some with you just in case. we end somewhere around 9.30ish if you need to come later, best call me before you leave to see how it's going on 007941 681561 (if you are a pervert please don't read this number) even if you can't stand my work come anyway ... it'll be nice to see you ........ gx www.pavenhillsculptures.com

Preview of David Brackston's Exhibition of Jefferies inspired Paintings Wednesday 24th August at 6.30pm at the Postmodern Gallery

2011-08-22T14:38:00.000-07:00

The Richard Jefferies Festival is being held from August 24th - 28th.
The Launch can be celebrated with wine and nibbles at the Postmodern Gallery, Theatre Square while looking at David Brackston's exhibition.
Here's a page from the flyer advertising the events:

For a hard copy of the flyer, visit the Central Library, or visit the website: www.richardjefferies.org/festival

Fred Blunt's Poster advertising his Event at the Arts Centre on the 10th of September

2011-08-21T09:41:00.000-07:00

With less than 3 weeks to go to the beginning of Swindon Open Studios, advertising is hotting up.
Fred has produced this poster to advertise his presence at the Arts Centre with Emma Butt from Osborne Books.
This is a fantastic opportunity to buy signed copies of the children's books that Fred has illustrated, as well as some of his illustrations, doodles and artworks on paper.

Studio: 01793 574497 / Mobile: 07929 382837

Email: fred@blunt-illustration.co.uk

Web: www.blunt-illustration.co.uk

www.flickr.com
Fred has also now got a blog:
fredblunt.blogspot.com/
Here's a pic from it:

Emma Butt

Independent Usborne Organiser: Divisional Leader

Winner of the Stephen Cartwright Award for Excellence...

Join us, make money, make a difference & have fun!

WIN £100 OF BOOKS : SPOT ME IN OUR FILM : GET PAID TO PARTY

Email me: emma@mylittleyellowduck.co.uk

Call me: 01844 214 739 / 07974 230 898

Or for more information online: www.mylittleyellowduck.co.uk

Which 5 Paintings did Tim sell at Treberfydd?

2011-08-18T06:55:00.000-07:00

I would like to celebrate the success at Treberfydd, both for Tim and Peace Direct, supporting peace builders in conflict zones:
www.peacedirect.org
by displaying the paintings he sold.

Here's 'The Library' with genuine William Morris wallpaper in the background setting off the picture well.

And here is 'The Orchard' much loved by Margaret Carroll.

'The Beach', I'll miss this one.

And 2 more beach paintings, the one above particularly favoured by Alex, my grandson, he thinks he's in it! He is of course.

Talk by Tony Huzzey - Thursday 18th August

2011-08-17T14:40:00.000-07:00

organised by SBC Library Service ...

Free talk - This Thursday

Tony Huzzey on his book about living with diabetes

18 August 2011 5.30 - 6.30

Arts Centre

5.30pm–6.30pm

Tony's book tells the inspiring story of how, as a 12-year-old and only 36 hours from death in 1950, he was encouraged to fight back by accepting personal responsibility for the maintenance of his own health as an Insulin dependent diabetic. Now, some 50,000 self-administered injections later, he is the holder of the Diabetes UK Lawrence Medal (which is named in honour of the doctor who saved his life 60 years earlier).

Despite living over six decades with Type 1 Diabetes Tony has led a thoroughly enjoyable, successful and socially useful life, with only the occasional! mishap. He has fulfilled all of his ambitions with many adventures, triumphs and challenges to overcome and all of this despite this chronic medical condition.

In writing this book Tony has kept his promise to his late wife, Joan, who insisted he should 'keep going!' The man 'Who Brought the Honda Factory To Swindon' has done that all of his life and hasn't stopped yet. The aim of his book is to encourage others to do as he did.

Walking in the Black Mountains - Capel- y- ffin discovered

2011-08-17T04:36:00.000-07:00

Walking from outside Talgarth, up into the Black Mountains and eating sandwiches by the reservoir up there, is fabulous. But how to walk back? Along the ridge or down into the valley? But wait a minute, the valley as well as looking enticing, houses Capel-y-ffin where Eric Gill lived between 1924 and 1948. No contest then, the valley walk became the route to be taken.
Here are some photos of the monastery where he lived and the plaque which is all that remains, all carvings are now elsewhere.

There are 3 self catering flats to rent here. Capel-y-ffin is really remote, chosen by Eric Gill so he could get on with his work, perfect for a break.
www.capelmonastery.co.uk

This plaque can be found inside the entrance to the flats.

This is a not quite straight scan from Fiona McCarthy's book entitled 'Eric Gill' featuring his famous sculpture the 'Deposition', a major work of sculpture completed at Capel.

Art @ Treberfydd House - who else was there?

2011-08-14T14:32:00.000-07:00

I particularly enjoyed looking at Sally Matthew's work; although the photograph does not do this horse justice, Sally is able to 'breathe life' into her sculptures and paintings. This horse looked as though it belonged in front of Treberfydd House. Sally also took part in The 'Fresh Air' biennial sculpture exhibition at Quenington this year: www.freshair2011.com
To see more of Sally's work, go to: www.sallymatthews.co.uk

Here is one of Neil Bally's paintings positioned below a beautiful frieze, and above one of the finest fireplaces, carved locally from local stone by local craftsmen. Neil hung the exhibition very sensitively, making the paintings and sculpture look as though they belonged there. Neil runs a selection of art courses from his delightful home near Talgarth, set in the foothills of the Black Mountains. To find out more, go to: www.niel.bally.co.uk

This is my favourite painting of Jane's, featured on her business cards, it's beautiful. To see more of Jane's paintings, go to: www.janemilner-barry.co.uk
For a day out, why not visit Treberfydd House during August?
There is also a plant nursery in the grounds and glorious camping at Ty Mawr where you can also find out more about traditional and ecological building materials: www.lime.org.uk

Art @ Treberfydd House - one day left of this Magnificent Event

2011-08-13T15:43:00.000-07:00

One of the other blog entries shows the front of Treberfydd House, here's one of the back of the house, including some of the gardens.
It doesn't convey the splendour of the mountains at the front of the house, but you might just be able to see the chimney pots set at various angles.

Here is the inside of the conservatory seen on the right hand side of the picture above.

Tim's 'Orchard' looking very much at home in the main entrance.

Two similar views of the Billiard Room with more of Tim's paintings.

Three people in the Hall.

Jane's paintings above the fireplace in the living room.
All the fireplaces are different from each other.
For a superb day out, go to Treberfydd House tomorrow.
If you miss the Art @ Treberfydd show, the house and gardens are open each afternoon in August with house tours at 2pm and 4pm daily.

The Brochure for this years Open Studios has been printed!! Five weeks ahead of the Event.

2011-08-04T14:20:00.000-07:00

It looks great!!
Copies of the brochure are available at the Arts Centre, Central Library, Swindon Museum and Art Gallery and Artsite.
Artists will be able to collect their copies of the brochure from Bea at 91, Croft Road from Monday 8th August.
It can be viewed on line at:www.swindonopenstudios.org.uk
The front cover designed by Jane Milner-Barry from a photograph of a piece of Theresa Dowdeswell's translucent slipcast porcelain, looks like this:

A Reminder about the Art @ Treberfydd House Event starting this weekend

2011-08-03T16:15:00.000-07:00

If you would like to meet the artists taking part in this event, come along to the Private View on Friday 5th August between 6.30 and 8.30pm.

And here is a copy of the poster.

There is a camp site further along the road which is mainly deals in materials for building in a traditional manner. Prince Charles has recently visited them for materials to renovate his house near Llandovery.

Craft Fair at the Arts Centre, Devizes Road this Sunday 7th of August from 10am-3pm

2011-08-02T12:34:00.000-07:00

Arts Centre Craft Fair

Come along and see what's on offer, there will be lots to enjoy.

Carmen B. Norris will have a stall at the Swindon Arts Centre where she will be selling mixed media artwork.

Date: Sunday, 7th August 2011

Time: 10-3pm

Place: Swindon Arts Centre, Old Town

http://www.swindon.gov.uk/artscentre

www.carmenbnorris.com

More photos of the Walcot Chapel Preview sent by Jay Kynch

2011-07-31T15:23:00.000-07:00

I appealed for more photos of Friday night, and here they are.....

Kathy talking to Tim.

'The Winter's Tale bought by Jay and Mike.

Walcot Chapel around 9.30pm.

Paul Exton and Tim Carroll's Exhibition at Walcot Chapel preview photos

2011-07-30T14:29:00.000-07:00

The Preview for this exhibition was a great success, thank you to all those people who came and contributed to making the evening so special.
Apologies for not taking photographs earlier, I was occupied with grandmotherly duties and then didn't think about them until the last few minutes.

Karen in the foreground, Jackie and Paul talking to Paul Brokensha of Trinity Artists who kindly lent us their screens to hide the 'messy area'.

Ali taking photos, with Jill, Rich and Chris chatting.

More chatting.

Tim standing by the postcard rack and angel display.

My favourite pictures: above Paul's pictures, and below, Tim's picture.

There is only one day to go at Walcot Chapel, so if you want to see the exhibition, get there before 5pm tomorrow, the 31st of July.
Advance notice: Gordon Dickinson will be having an exhibition in Walcot Chapel 22nd-28th August with a Private View on the evening of 26th of August.
To find out more about Gordon's work, visit:
www.pavenhillsculptures.com

The Swindon Open Studios Brochure has now gone to Print!!!!

2011-07-27T03:10:00.000-07:00

Exciting news, we are on target to collect the brochures from the printer on
August 3rd.
Jane Milner-Barry, one of the three SOS committee members has designed and collated the brochure, and made an excellent job of it.
This year we have grouped artists according to areas for easier access; this is the Longcot group's page:

Isn't that fab? Can't wait to see the whole brochure.

The Setting up of Paul Exton and Tim Carroll's Exhibition at Walcot Chapel from start to finish

2011-07-25T15:04:00.000-07:00

Here is the chapel at 8.45am this morning, sun shining through the end window, the walls a brilliant white.

Tim is beginning to bring paintings into the chapel.

Paul has arrived with a table, chairs and lots of paintings

At the end of the day, here is Tim's side of the chapel.

And here is Paul's side of the chapel.

The exhibition is open daily from 11am - 5pm and there is a special party with drinks and nibbles on Friday evening from 5pm til 9.30pm.

Favourites at the Take Three Exhibition at The post Modern, Theatre Square, SN1 1QN July 18th - 30th Open Monday - Saturday 11am - 5pm

2011-07-24T14:22:00.000-07:00

The exhibition space at the Post Modern has been divided into three sections to accommodate the work of Vicky Silver, Hannah Moreton and Sally Taylor.
At the private View on Friday night, I talked extensively to Hannah about her work, a bit to Sally and less to Vicky.
This magnificent embroidery piece entitled Queen Viv, is a tribute to Vivienne Westwood, who inspired Hannah's interest in fashion.

These plates are a reflection of Hannah's interest in domesticity. I have bought the middle one and am thinking about domesticity in a different light.

Sally is interested in personal histories, particularly the stories held within old photos. My favourite picture of Sally's has appeared on the blog under the 'Substance' exhibition entry, this is my second favourite, entitled 'Alan with Gran and Gramps 1962

Vicky has many birds on show, I'm not sure what this one was called.

Do try and get along and have a look at the exhibition.
And have a look at Gordon's slide show on you tube:

Take Three Artsite 22_07_2011-Display.m4v

www.youtube.com

The Trinity Artsists Private View at Walcot Chapel, Bath 19th July

2011-07-21T12:56:00.000-07:00

The Trinity Artists have an exhibition at Walcot Chapel this week, their Private View was on Tuesday evening. There were 14 artists taking part, so the chapel was packed with guests.
Their website is: www.trinityarists.co.uk

Here is their poster:

They produced a high quality A5 flyer two sided with all participating artists listed:

Here's the entrance to the Chapel:

And inside the chapel, lots of people and work on walls.

Tim Carroll and Paul Exton are holding a Joint Exhibition at Walcot Chapel from the 25th - 31st July

2011-07-17T13:50:00.000-07:00

Walcot Chapel is a glorious venue for an exhibition, set back from Walcot Street on the left as you leave London Road in Bath and head for the centre of Bath along Walcot Street.
The post code is: BA1 5UG.
Tim and Paul will be at the gallery from 11am until 5pm each day, do go along if you get the chance.
If you are available on Friday 29th July, do try and go to the Private View on when they will be offering refreshments and lots of people to talk to until 9.30pm.
Why not have a night out in Bath?

Here's the official invitation:

More examples of Tim's work can be seen on his website: www.timcarroll.co.uk

This exhibition is also advertised on Bath Society of Artists website: www.bsaartists.c.uk under 'exhibitions'.
And also on the Art Rabbit website by following the link below:
http://www.artrabbit.com/uk/venues/venue/1012/walcot_chapel_gallery

Walcot Chapel is a lovely building to draw; this is what I drew and coloured in last year:

Sue's Gallery and Framing in Highworth for all your framing needs.

2011-07-16T13:45:00.000-07:00

Looking for frames?
Why not contact Sue?
Sue Ilett who is sponsoring us this year by having an advertisement in our brochure, is a Fine Art Trade Guild Commended Framer.
She is a specialist framer of memorabilia, cross stitches, jigsaws, pictures, prints etc.
She also does dry mounting and laminating, and has a range of ready made frames available.
Sue has a FVS, a frame visualisation system so you can see your picture framed before buying .
To contact Sue, please ring: 01793 764929 or visit her in person at Unit 23 Blackworth Industrial Estate, Highworth.
Or visit her website: www.suesgallery.co.uk

The Royal International Air Tattoo (RAF Fairford) - Airshow 16th/17th July

2011-07-15T02:23:00.000-07:00

The air show is one of the biggest and best air shows with hundreds of aircraft offering death-defying displays to an expected 170000 visitors according to the information available via a Google search. This is the 40th anniversary of the event with gates opening at 7.30am, and special traffic arrangements for miles around to cope with the expected influx on to the site of the air show.
To find out more, visit the RIAT website: airtattoo.com

Why are we featuring an air show in the blog?
Because David Bent's image has been used on the front cover of their brochure:

The link to find out more about David's art is: www.bentartgallery.co.uk

The advertisement above is courtesy of Frequency Magazine: www.frequencymagazine.co.uk

An update from the Tattoo on Friday 15th July:

'A great couple of days so far including setting up & over 200 aircrew signed David's Riat 2011 artwork - to be raffled/ auctioned to help raise funds for the rafcte charity later this year. David's Artwork features on all of the Air tattoo material including tickets, brochure, mega posters and on buses! Mugs, tshirts & stickers for sale via airtattoo.co.uk. A copy of the signed artwork will be at David's studio as part of his open studio weekend in September'

Private View of 'Take Three', an exhibition of work by Vicky, Sally and Hannah at Artsite

2011-07-14T12:00:00.000-07:00

This private view sounds well worth attending; should be a great party. Here's what Vicky, Hannah and Sally say on the invitation:

You are invited to the Private view of

"Take Three"

an exhibition of work by

Sally Taylor, Hannah Morton and Vicky Silver

"The Post Modern"

Theatre Square

Swindon

SN1 1QN

Friday 22nd July 2011

from

7.00pm to 9.00pm

Artsite has been very busy lately and this will be a great opportunity for us to party and thank all the wonderful volunteers who have helped us move on over the past few months. Also a chance for our associate members to reconnect with each other and catch up with all the latest news.

Look forward to seeing you there.

http://www.artsite.ltd.uk
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=89034225642
http://myspace.com/artsite

There are three posters rather cleverly based on Scrabble boards, and the Take Three idea, one of them has loaded up and appears here.

Bev Greig's Shortlisted painting

2011-07-12T16:05:00.000-07:00

The painting is titled: 'Carousel Volume Versions on a Tenacious Slab ( with yearning).

Bev has just graduated from with a BA (Hons) Drawing for Fine Art Practice, Bath University, and one of her final show paintings has been shortlisted for the Cork Street Open Exhibition which is supporting the charity Papyrus - Prevention of Young Suicide. The exhibition will run between 4-12 August 2011 at 27-28 Cork Street, London W1S 3NG. Tickets for the Private View (benefiting PAPYRUS) on 3rd August 7-9pm are available at www.corkstreetopenexhibition.com or if people are just interested in seeing the 300+ artworks and happen to be in London at the time they could pop in and see the exhibition for free.

Swindon Big Arts Day 9th July 12noon til 10.00pm

2011-07-12T13:27:00.000-07:00

It's happened! The second Big Arts Day was a tremendous success, it didn't rain and hundreds of people took part and twenty thousand attended.
There were three stages and many tents with a wide variety of activities taking place.

There really was something for everyone, and all ages were represented.

These two were the Powdered Wigs, they were highly interactive ladies coming down frequently from their ivory towers to mix with the common folk.

St Mary's Church is home to one of Swindon's most treasured pieces of art, the St. John Triptych, the 17th Century panels are normally kept behind screens to protect them from the light, and can only be viewed three times during the year. Last Saturday being one of them.

This painting from the 15th century is on display on one of the pillars in the church the whole time and quite remarkable when one considers it's age.

Last but not least, the walled garden at Lydiard Park is a joy.

St. Joseph's Catholic College Art and Photography Exhibition - last chance to see it on Monday July 11th

2011-07-09T14:57:00.000-07:00

The poster advertises the exhibition only until the 7th of July, but it is still at Artsite and can be seen on Monday. I looked round and coincidentally photographed quite a few images depicted on the poster.
If you saw it between the 4th and 7th of July, the exhibition was curated by some of the students who gave interesting insights into the work.

The large picture with peacock feather tail is 'Contours on Canvas' by Rebecca French. With 'Light aliens crossing road' by Ember Welson and 'Flowers' by Jennifer Barrett is top right.

This 'Fabric Lady' by Katherine Bryan caught my interest. Top left is 'Mixed Media Canvas' by Marta Tomaszek and below that ''Bananas on Pattern' by Sean Benny.

This is 'Naked' by Sarah Manley.

The Platform as a Venue for Open Studios an Update.

2011-07-07T14:14:00.000-07:00

Excellent news, after meeting Paul Ashman of the Swindon Music Service this morning, it has been confirmed that we're still welcome to exhibit in the Platform despite a change of use of the building.
Annoyingly the details of the Music Service were left behind, but there are some photos of the inside and some text I copied from SBC's website.

When people say, well where is the Platform?
It's that rather imposing, lovely building on Faringdon Road. It was the old Railway Museum.

Here's a photo of inside with the railway carriage in the background.

Here's the stage with it's excellent music facilities.

And here's a view of the inside of the railway carriage.

And here's another dizzy one of the outside.

Below is information copied from the borough's website:

Thursday, 07 July 2011

Youth Support - The Platform

On this page: Information about youth support services provided at The Platform.

What is The Platform?

The Platform is a centre for all young people aged 11-19 in Swindon, housed in the former Railway Museum building in Faringdon Road, Swindon.

It is a general meeting place for young people, and the venue for diverse events - some of which are planned, while others are spontaneous.

The resources available to our visitors include:

Wi-Fi
Internet enabled
Railway carriage
Xbox 360 with Kinect
Wii
Café
Industry standard sound system
Much more

Youth Engagement Programme of Activities - Swindon South Area

Details of the extensive programme are contained in a downloadable PDF file:

Youth Engagement Programme of Activities (87Kb)

Further Information/Contact

The Platform
Faringdon Road
Swindon
SN1 5BJ

E-mail: platform@swindon.gov.uk
Tel: 01793 465013

Caerleon - the most amazing Roman site in Britain

2011-07-06T13:36:00.000-07:00

Caerleon, just north of Newport is a fascinating place to visit for the Roman remains, larger than life size wood sculptures around every corner. The one in the church yard depicting two people hugging is a surprise and delight.
There are surprises around every corner, including the mosaics either side of the town hall front door shown below:

There's a map of the town, available in many pubs and shops. The Priory has a lovely garden to eat in if you go on a fine day. For a closer look at what's on offer visit: www.caerleon.net

Drawings and Paintings produced in Cornwall

2011-07-04T14:34:00.000-07:00

This is my drawing of the delightful cottage where we stayed. It is the middle of three cottages, called 'Touch - Me - Pipes apparently because a footpath bisects the road at this point and so it formed a useful meeting place for people. The touching pipes appear in the top left hand corner.

Here's another coloured in drawing of Gunnera at Roskilly Farm, home of the delicious ice creams.

'A view of Helford River' in acrylic by Tim

'Coverack' by Tim

'Kennack Sands' by Tim

And 'Towards St Keverne' by Tim. I spent much more time walking footpaths and looking at gardens than Tim as can be seen by my meagre efforts.

Kaffe Fassett - Colours Mix Media Show Trelowarren May - July 2011 and other Cornish delights

2011-07-02T14:19:00.000-07:00

As a long time admirer of Kaffe Fassett, I was delighted to see this exhibition in Cornwall, courtesy of Cornwall Crafts Association www.cornwallcrafts.co.uk
The Trelowarren Estate is fabulous, set about one and a half miles from the road, with walks to the Helford Estuary, it's also well worth a visit www.trelowarren.com
This is my favourite exhibit, it's tapestry and gives some idea of the vibrancy of the colours used by Kaffe Fassett:

Other delights included Roskilly's ice cream.
The photo below is of a stained glass window on the farm which was a particularly good summary of their business.

The gardens and the coastal paths deserve a mention as well.

Invitation to Private View at Treberfydd House August 5th 6.30-8.30pm

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- The exhibition is raising money for Peace Direct (www.peacedirect.org) which supports conflict-resolution activities in war-torn areas worldwide.

- If you can't make the private view, please bring the invitation to the exhibition on any other day and you'll be given a free drink of your choice.

- Treberfydd House (www.treberfydd.com) will be open throughout the exhibition period, with tours at 2 and 4pm daily. Tours are £5 for house and gardens and the gardens (10 acres of woodland walks, roses, towering pines, etc) make a lovely spot for a picnic.