A packed programme of arts and crafts has been unveiled as part of the first ever Middleton Hall Arts Festival.
More than 100 artefacts will be on public display, including ceramics, jewellery, photographs, painting and drawings, throughout the event from Monday 24th to Sunday 30th June.
Organised by residents, Middleton Hall’s co-owners and external artists, the free festival at the retirement village in Middleton St George near Darlington will bring together the many talents of the Hall’s potters, artists, photographers and painters.
This includes a display by the Middleton Hall Photography Group, above, called ‘Hobsons Choice’, which will showcase a range of photographs on subjects including colourful food, farming, engineering, farming, the landscape, flowers and ‘Back in Time’.
Keen potter Les Simpson, below, a resident in the Waterside development has been key in the development of ceramics in the Village and co-ordinating the exciting exhibition. An Arts Trail will help lead visitors through what promises to be an exciting exhibition of mixed media.
Residents and visitors are also being offered an opportunity to try out their own handiwork in a series of free art and craft taster sessions throughout the festival.
Sustainable artist Rosi Thornton of Rejig is also offering the chance to make something new from something old and have a go at paper printing and book making.
Whilst former art teacher Gill Ashman will be showing how to produce a fabulous floral piece from paper clay.
Michael Hodgson, Middleton Hall’s Healthy Living Manager, commented: “We are so excited to be launching our inaugural arts festival. It builds on the success of previous outstanding photography exhibitions by our photography group and is also perfect to showcase some of the exciting work being produced from the new Middleton Hall arts studio which was completed in 2018.
“Our talented potters, artists, photographers and painters have worked incredibly hard to produce some exceptional pieces. For some, art has been a lifelong interest, for others a new hobby started in later years. Whatever the level of expertise, the festival pulls together a fantastic range of exhibits that clearly illustrate a level of passion and enjoyment.
“We invite everyone to come along and join us to enjoy some amazing artworks.”
The Middleton Hall Arts Festival will open from 10.30am – 4.00pm Monday 24th to Sunday 30th June. Entry is free. To book a place on the arts and crafts taster sessions call Middleton Hall reception on 01325 332207.
Further information about the festival and the dates and times of the workshops is available at https://www.middletonhallretirementvillage.co.uk/middleton-halls-first-arts-exhibition-opening-soon/