ARTISTS of all ages and abilities are being invited to take part in painting competitions as Art in the City returns to Gloucester this July.
The free event, on Saturday 30 July, will feature two ‘Plein Air’ painting competitions. One category for artists and one for families. ‘En plein air’ is a French expression meaning ‘in the open air’ which refers to painting outdoors when the artist’s subject is displayed in full view.
The first competition category is for professional and hobbyist artists. They are invited to come with their own materials to compete and capture the Cathedral Quarter’s historic landscapes. In the second category for families there are one hundred free art packs available at The Folk of Gloucester which can be collected on the day. These packs will include all the materials you need to take part.
Artist and organiser of Art in the City, Russell Haines said, ‘It’s great to be able to revive Art in the City after a long and unexpected break. It allows everyone to take part in creativity regardless of skill level or experience. Westgate Street is currently undergoing regeneration, and this event will populate the cathedral quarter with families and artists who can enjoy a free day out whilst capturing the area’s rich heritage through art.’
Artists and families can submit their best creations to The Folk of Gloucester at the end of the day. They will be reviewed by a panel consisting of local people and renowned artists. The judges are artists P.J. Crook MBE, MJ Ashcroft MAFA, Richard Crook, Jane Clatworthy, Russell Haines and local radio presenter and artist Faye Hatcher. Winning paintings will receive cash prizes and various art materials. All submitted pieces will be exhibited at the Folk of Gloucester. The winner’s art will be displayed at Gloucester Brewery from September.
Throughout the day, Gloucester-based artist Maddi Staples will be running a creative workshop with various activities at The Folk of Gloucester and you will also see Plein Air demonstrations from a range of professional artists from across the country.
Gloucester BID Manager Emily Gibbon said, ‘We welcome the return of Art in the City as an exciting event that Gloucester can offer for all to take part in. It is a great opportunity for Gloucester residents to visit the high street and engage with it in a unique way.’
Full details of the event and registration to take part or collect your free family pack can be found here
Art In The City is made possible with funds from Arts Council England and support from Gloucester BID, Gloucestershire Gateway Trust and The Folk of Gloucester.
The event will be taking place from 9.00am based at the Folk of Gloucester: 99, 103 Westgate St, Gloucester GL1 2PG
