An artist producing dramatic fountains with stainless steel, water, stone and glass, and a vibrant collection of contemporary paintings by two Goring artists exhibiting for the first time are just some of the things you’ll be able to see out and about in Henley during Artweeks this spring.
The artists preparing for the Artweeks biannual Artspace exhibition in the beautiful 18th century setting of Henley’s Barn Galleries will include sculptors Mike Speller, BT Art of Sport artist for the Olympics, and Jenny Pickford who, spotted at last year’s Chelsea Flower Show, is flying with a 4.2m high Agapanthus flower sculpture to Chicago next month, whilst the River and Rowing Museum will show work by local children and Acacia Lodge will host an inspirational exhibition profiling the work of the Art Therapy Group for their elderly residents, many of whom live with dementia.
Around 1000 artists, including 180 new for 2012, are preparing to open almost 500 venues across the county this spring as Artweeks celebrates its 30th anniversary, making it the longest-running and biggest open studios in the UK. With two dozen venues from Henley to Wallingford inviting you in; there’ll be a wide variety of work on show, from ceramics and jewellery to furniture and digital media, prints, cards and pots; and new venues will open their doors in Ipsden, Ewelme and Turville.
New for this year, a new local area trail is in production, as well as the definitive festival guide and website, visitors will have the chance to see the art produced in their own communities, to ask local artists about their inspirations, techniques and materials, and even have a go themselves. Whether you are an art aficionados or an everyday enthusiast, there’ll be something to capture your interest, and all for free.
Artweeks is celebrated across Oxfordshire in partnership with local arts centres, museums, and other Oxfordshire organisations, with support from Hamptons International whose Henley office will house taster art throughout May.
You can pick up an Artweeks guide from libraries, Hamptons branches and local information points from April or visit www.artweeks.org.
