A Norfolk art collective is set to open two exhibitions of work ahead of its annual open studios event in the picturesque Waveney Valley.

Waveney Revisited by Harleston & Waveney Art Trail collective (HWAT) will take place at the newly refurbished Diss Corn Hall, while a second exhibition will take place at The Farmer’s Kitchen near Alburgh.

Featuring the work of 24 artists, both exhibitions will give visitors the chance to view the work which will be on offer when the group’s members open their studio doors for their annual Art Trail in late May.

From vibrant abstracts and evocative landscapes to textiles, prints and sculptures there will be a range of art forms on offer.

Chairman of HWAT, Malcolm Cudmore, said: “Both exhibitions will showcase recent works from members and give visitors the chance to see the quality and breadth of work that will form Harleston & Waveney Art Trail.”

While the work at Diss Corn Hall is inspired by encounters, observed moments and other responses to the Waveney Valley the exhibition at the Farmer’s Kitchen will feature an example work from each of the open studio artists.

Mr Cudmore said: “Our members have had a working relationship with The Farmer’s Kitchen at Alburgh since it reopened a few years ago.
“An example of work from each 2018 Open Studio member will be on show together with clear links to every studio. With a well-deserved reputation for excellent locally sourced food, The Farmer’s Kitchen will also show excellent locally produced professional artwork.”

The exhibition at Diss Corn Hall will run from Thursday, May 3 until Sunday, June 3.

The second exhibition will take place at The Farmer’s Kitchen near Alburgh and will run from Monday, April 30 until Thursday, May 31.

The Harleston & Waveney Art Trail takes place across two weekends on May 19-20 and 26-28 from 11am – 6pm each day, featuring the work of 24 artists at 23 locations.

Visitors will be able to see artists at work, browse their collections and purchase work direct from the studios.

Mr Cudmore said: “Getting prepared for the Trail each year is always exciting. Some things seem the same, but there is always change.

“Each artist’s work develops over time and it is great see new themes emerge. Those who’ve had a year out come back with renewed vigour. And, one or two others take time out for research and refreshment – causing me to speculate about all the exciting things they’ll be showing in another year.

“The textile group, which has exhibited together in previous years, has added a new feature to this year’s Trail. There will be an additional, “have-a-go” day on the Friday May, 18. This will give visitors a hands-on experience of the techniques and skills that go into their excellent work.

“Constantly evolving, this year’s Trail promises something for all tastes and artistic interests. Come and join us.”

Artist Chris Mound, whose woodcuts take inspiration from nature, said: “’Opening my studio to the public is daunting but fun. It is a good opportunity to get first hand feedback on my work.

“I believe strongly in encouraging creative activity for wellbeing, so I am happy to demonstrate and talk about what I do.”

Painter Sara Johnson said: “I very much look forward to taking part in the annual Harleston & Waveney Art Trail, to welcome familiar faces, collectors, & new visitors to my studio, home & garden. It provides me with valuable feedback on my work & a chance to show my paintings to the local community. It gives visitors an opportunity to meet me in my own working environment , surrounded by the things that inspire me.”

For more information and for full listings please visit the group’s website at www.hwat.org.uk

The group’s recent book Waveney Reflections will also be on sale at both exhibitions.

 

About Harleston & Waveney Art Trail

The Harleston & Waveney Art Trail Collective (also known as HWAT) is a diverse and lively community of professional artists who live and work in the beautiful Waveney Valley, all within reach of Harleston, a small market town on the border of Norfolk and Suffolk.

The Harleston & Waveney Art Trail has taken place every summer since 2005. Each year the group opens their studios and workshops for two or three consecutive weekends. Entry to all studios and workshops is free, browsers are very welcome, and work can be purchased direct from the artists. All the studios are within ten miles of Harleston.