LOCAL artists have been helping to brighten up the town centre with art exhibitions in an empty shop window.
In the former Nettl shop on Lowbourne, passersby have enjoyed the “seascape” work of artist Laura Richards, and can currently enjoy the work of Joy Jefferys.
The exhibition has been part of the Lockdown Window Exhibition Challenge, which encouraged all residents to display their art in their own windows.
“It’s been so lovely to finally get my work out of the studio and on display as part of the ‘Lockdown Window Exhibition’,” said Laura.
“Usually showing my work in nearby cities, it has been refreshing to exhibit in Melksham and share paintings with family and friends. I have received lots of positive feedback and pleased my lockdown creations have brightened the days of others.”
Joy added, “Taking part in this community initiative is a privilege and I’m grateful for the opportunity. Sharing creativity with others is such a rewarding experience and I would encourage others to have a try too.
“What a great use of an empty shop front, if this makes a few people smile, or inspires someone to learn more about art then I think that is a thing to take pride in. Art has really come to the fore during lockdown, it has proved to be a brilliant way of keeping in touch. Painting on line with my group has provided a peaceful inclusive and creative space during these difficult and challenging times.”
The Lockdown Window Exhibition Challenge is part of the town council’s ‘Melksham Loves Art’ initiative, which has also included a ‘Window of Thanks’ in the window of The Hiding Place on the Hight Street.
And whilst lockdown is coming to an end, the art exhibitions in the shop window in Lowbourne will continue for as long as the town council has access to the empty shop.
The town council’s community engagement manager, Miriam Zaccarelli, said, “We are rotating the display every two weeks while we have access to the shop window so look out for more inspiring art in the next few weeks.
“Thank you Andy Butcher for use of the premises.”
For more information about the initiative, or to enquire about displaying your art work, get in touch with miriamzaccarelli@melksham-tc.gov.uk
And to view more work from Laura Richards, visit: www.lauramrichards.co.uk
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