Celebrate town’s Art in the Park

Carole Sleight and Stephanie Kerr with Art in the Park committee members Clive Engwell (chairman of Leamington Studio Artists), Meurig Hughes, Morgan Forth and Charlotte Yeung.

Visitors enjoyed a weekend of art, creativity, inspiration and fun last year with over 60 artists, live bands, workshops, theatre performances and demonstrations from acclaimed sculptors, painters and craftsmen during the first festival.

The two-day showcase for local artists, founded by Leamington Studio Artists, was so well-received that organisers and supporters, including BID Leamington and Warwick District Council, felt it deserved to become a yearly fixture.

More than 85 artists are already confirmed as exhibitors, with a number of bands so far booked. There will also be performances by Motionhouse Youth Dance Theatre Company and Pauline Quirke Academy.

A range of creative hands-on opportunities to make and shape will be available, including clay pot making, flora and fauna-inspired screen printing, animal inspirations and a chance for visitors to design their own t-shirt.

Organiser Carole Sleight said: “As well as celebrating talented artists from all disciplines, the festival makes the arts accessible to the community and gives people of all ages the chance to enjoy and try art in the beautiful setting of Jephson Gardens.

“We’ve been overwhelmed by the positive response from artists, musicians, performers, dances and workshop providers and this year’s festival promises to be packed with art and entertainment.”

Festival organisers are now appealing for further support to help put the event and the town firmly on the arts map.

Carole said: “We need help from participants, sponsors, volunteers and by people spreading the word to make sure that Leamington gains a reputation as a town with a vibrant art scene and an established yearly arts festival.

“We are looking for businesses and individuals to help Art in the Park grow and flourish, and have put together a range of sponsorship opportunities to hopefully attract the financial support needed to stage the event.”

For more information regarding sponsorship, volunteering and exhibiting, email [email protected]

Full event details can be found at www.artinpark.co.uk.