Now in its fifth year, the Child Okeford Art Trail returns this August Bank Holiday with an inspiring line-up of 22 artists and craftspeople across the village. From Friday 22nd to Monday 25th August, 11am to 4pm daily, visitors can explore home studios, gardens and community spaces, discovering work ranging from ceramics and printmaking to jewellery, painting and sculpture.
At the Old School House, Diane Ablitt will be showing her latest pieces in a newly refurbished studio set within a beautiful garden. She’ll be joined by linocut printer Kathy Clarke and Jo Burnell, whose hand-thrown earthenware pots are decorated in bold, colourful designs inspired by the Dorset countryside.
Clock Cottage has seen recent transformation too, where Rob Adams unveils a new studio space. He’ll be joined by Cath Broadway of Elm House Studio pottery and Sue Fawthrop, whose expressive paintings evoke the atmosphere of Dorset’s landscapes and coast.
Eleven artists will exhibit together in the Village Hall, where visitors can enjoy homemade cakes, light lunches and refreshments in support of Julia’s House, thanks to local charity SERO.
All proceeds from Julie Little’s paintings will also go towards the hospice.
New to the hall this year is printmaker Victoria Garland, whose intaglio etchings often feature winter trees etched into copper or steel plates. Also debuting is jeweller Rachel Raine, whose silverwork incorporates ethically sourced stones, fossils and recycled materials, with designs inspired by natural textures and forms.
Village resident Kirsty Baird joins artists at the Community Centre with her paintings reflecting a deep love of local life and countryside.
With everything from fine art to handcrafted jewellery on show, the trail offers a unique opportunity to meet the makers, explore creative spaces and discover something unexpected in every corner of the village.
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