Dorset Wildlife Trust (DWT) is pleased to announce that the Kingcombe Centre, near Maiden Newton, will be hosting a colourful and stunning exhibition of wildlife art as part of the annual Dorset Art Weeks festival from Saturday 24thMay until Sunday 8thJune 2014.
The Centre, which will act as a hub for west Dorset Art weeks celebrations will be exhibiting various artists from around the south west, displaying a range of media, from oil paintings, to sculpture and etchings, all of which have been inspired by wildlife in Dorset and surrounding areas.
Artists attending include Rachel Bright, creator of the multi-million selling gift and gifts and card brand, ‘The Bright side’ and Bruno Charron, who uses recycled wood to create stunning sculptures. Local sculptor, Sally Derrick, will display her beautiful clay and bronze pieces, some of which have been inspired by wildlife she observes in her garden in Dorset.
Sally Derrick said: “When I came to Dorset, I started sculpting wildlife to capture the form and essence of the animal, to explore its ecological struggles, and convey what makes that particular creature survive. Often this leads to a beautiful shape such as the flexibility of the cheetah’s body, the silent flight of the owl, or the quick spear-like beak and adapted feet of the egret. I’m delighted to be part of Art Weeks; Kingcombe is the most wonderful place, in that it is unspoilt and truly inspiring.”
Individual Giving Manager for DWT, Fiona Sansom, said: “Kingcombe is somewhere visitors can come for a great day out, with exhibitions for art enthusiasts, walks for wildlife lovers and creative and fun hands-on activities for children. As a fundraising initiative and as part of the festival, we are asking for art donations from those wanting to ‘give their unwanted art a home,’ to create an art gallery for sale or auction during the festival, with any donations for the pre-loved art going to DWT. If you would like to make a contribution, you can contact us on 01305 264620 for more information or to arrange collection. Alternatively you can send your art to us directly at Brooklands Farm, Forston, Dorchester, DT2 7AA.”
There is also a programme of activities for children, including searching for bugs and beasties on the reserve, decorating wildlife biscuits and making willow fish to take home.
The Kingcombe Cafe will be open from 10am-4pm during the two weeks, serving up refreshments and delicious dishes including high tea, cream tea, children’s food, light lunches, homemade cake and refreshments.
For more information about Art Weeks, visit https://www.dorsetartweeks.co.uk/. For more information about artists and events during Art Weeks at the Kingcombe Centre, visit www.kingcombe.org/dorset_art_weeks, or phone 01300 321409.
