Arundel Festival: gallery trail’s range of delights

Started in 1989 and now in its 22nd year, the Arundel Gallery Trail offers a range of delights once again this year during the Arundel Festival.

Trail spokesman James Stewart said: “A mainstay of the annual Arundel Festival, the Trail provides visitors to the town a chance to see artwork in historic houses and gardens, which are not usually open to the public.

“This year is no exception, there are over 100 artists showing work in 56 venues in the town. These include private houses, gardens, galleries, pubs and shops across the town – all within easy walking distance of each other.

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“The work on show is as varied as the venues and includes painting, ceramics, prints, jewellery, glass, ironwork, sculpture, drawings, textiles, furniture, wood-carving and

installations.

“With so many professional and gifted amateur artists resident locally, for the last fifty years or so it is no wonder that this open house art event keeps people returning

year after year.

“All venues are open from midday to 5pm for the whole ten day period of the Festival from August 20-29 (ending on the August Bank Holiday Monday). Entry to all venues is free, and most if not all the work on view will be for sale.”

James added: “It is a great day out for the family, or if you are looking for some artwork to start or add to your collection direct from the artist.

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“There are a few artists who have taken part since the start of the Trail: Andy Waite (painting), Val Lishman (painted wood) and Bill Philip (photography) and visitors like

to see their new work each year to see how it has developed over the years.

“Other favourites include Mike Savage’s metal garden sculptures, Gilly McCadden’s paintings and prints, Christian Doyle’s documentary photographs and Nicola Rose’s

paintings.

“New on this years Trail is established painter, Christopher Baker. His work can often be seen at the Royal Academy Summer Exhibition or in galleries throughout the UK. This year he opens his studio in Binsted for the Trail (the only venue outside Arundel, but well worth the trip).

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“The Downland Art Society show each year at the Norfolk Centre, their mixed show is a chance to buy watercolours and other paintings by gifted local amateur artists.

“A must-see is the installation made from willow branches by sculptor Mark Ford in

the garden of St Wilfred’s Priory.”

James added: “As with most years, many venues are on Tarrant and Maltravers Streets, but the

more adventurous will benefit from walking further to King Street, London Road,

School Lane and River Road (amongst others).

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“Historic houses taking part include the Georgian Chepynge House and Victorian Old Market House on Maltravers Street (formerly Chepynge Street or Old Chipping); The Duff Gallery on Tarrant Street, the former studio of the late Derek Davis, a joint-founder of the Gallery Trail and well-known local artist, now showing the work of his son; and Old Bank House formerly the home of Henty’s Bank, which was taken over by Lloyds Bank and whose horse logo/symbol was also adopted by Lloyds Bank.

More details www.arundelgallerytrail.co.uk or email [email protected].