'We are Walking Works of Art'

The theme will be “We are Walking Works of Art” and will take place on July 8 through Lewes, in a special celebration of the area’s young people as they make the transition from primary to secondary school and into adolescence.

This year’s parade costumes and sculptures will be inspired by the work of the great masters and modern mavericks, such as Dali, Picasso and Banksy.

Patina trustee Nick Bodimeade said: “Last year, the parade theme was local wildlife so we thought it would be great this year to focus on something uniquely human, by celebrating the lives and works of great artists.

“There are many artists living and working in this area and there is a world of creativity for the children to have fun with and explore when planning their parade.

“All of human experience and imagination is reflected in art, so the sky is the limit. It will be fascinating to see how the children interpret such a rich theme and we think it will be an extraordinary spectacle to enjoy in July.”

The Patina team are planning a series of arts-related events to support this year’s theme, including the Great Geocache Easter Egg Hunt around artists’ studios on Sunday, March 20, to give children the opportunity to meet local professional artists and see them at work, and an Anonymous Art Auction in Lewes House on Friday, April 22.

Patina is also delighted at the news they will be able to hold an exhibition of this year’s parade artwork, sculptures and costumes in the Foundry Gallery on July 10. This will be one of the last events at the gallery due to the redevelopment of the North Street area and so a moving celebration of a special moment in time for the young people and the area.

The parade organisers are inviting children and the community to let Patina know their favourite artists and suggest who they would like to see in the parade by emailing [email protected] or visiting Patina’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/Patina.

Patina is a registered charity that promotes the arts in Lewes. Its purpose is to foster a thriving artistic community by encouraging children’s involvement in the arts, supporting local artists and creating arts events throughout the year that bring benefit to the whole community.

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