Prom Art: A Breath of Fresh Air for Artists

Article Added: 25/02/2009
By Sarah Daly

The Grange-over-Sands promenade in Cumbria has been revolutionised. On the last Sunday of each month, the picturesque promenade is transformed into a hub of creative activity and local excitement. Prom Art, the monthly event set up by local artist Hayden Giffney, provides artists with an opportunity to escape the stuffy silence of indoor exhibitions and release their work into the fresh air of the Lake District. Over 80 textile artists, fine artists and craftspeople meet on the promenade, creating the largest outdoor gallery in the Northwest of England. While the artists enjoy exhibiting their work in the fresh air and against the backdrop of the beautiful Morecambe Bay, the public are treated to an enjoyable day of browsing through the creative delights, which has proved to be a pleasant family day out.

The open air seems to motivate the event, as the natural light brings out the vibrant colours of the artwork and encourages friendly chat between relaxed artists and wandering customers.  Over a thousand visitors stroll past the artwork each Sunday, with buskers, jazz musicians and Morris dancers adding to the excitement of the event.  After five successful years, Prom Art is continuing to flourish, and despite the unpredictable English weather, has only suffered one and half days of rain during its 25 events.
 
Artist Val Hall says: “It’s not just about people looking at art, it’s about life, and Prom Art has made my work less formal – it’s so friendly and jolly.” Prom Art proves that there is more to art exhibitions than selling, and is a wonderful collaboration of artistic talent and lively interactions. The event represents oils, mixed media, acrylics, watercolours, signed prints, textiles, photography, sculpture, beadwork, woodwork, patchwork and many other arts and crafts. If you are interested in presenting your work at Prom Art, you can book through the Grange Tourist Information Centre on 01539 534026 or use the booking form at www.promart.info. The dates for Prom Art 2009 are Sundays April 26th, May 31st, June 28th, July 26th, August 30th and September 27th.