Out Of Africa

LOOKING at some of the artwork at Littlehampton Museum's latest exhibition, it's hard to believe it was created by year two pupils.

Yet Arun Vale Meets Africa is all the work of the infants' after school art club, and is well worth a visit.

The theme is predominantly Kenyan, although there are other African influences in evidence.

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And, as museum curator Rebecca Fardell pointed out: "When Littlehampton was a fully functioning sea port, we had strong trade links with many African countries."

The items on display are copies of the clothing, artwork and weapons still in use by African tribes today.

On display, you'll find delicately painted silk scarves, hung in front of the window, capturing their beautiful translucence.

Brightly coloured masks, collages and shields adorn the walls, made by the children, under the expert tuition of Littlehampton illustrator Sue Oldfield.

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A display case in the museum's reception area shows a selection of water monster masks alongside photographs showing the youngsters hard at work creating their masterpieces.

A stunning wall hanging creates the perfect backdrop for a full-size mannequin of a tribesman, located round the corner in another display case.

Arun Vale Meets Africa runs until August 17 and admission is free to the museum, which is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10.30am-4.30pm.