by Helen Martin
Arts in the Ville is a highlight on the local calendar and this year’s, the sixth, has plenty of fabulous art and wonderful events in art studios, pop up galleries and other venues, including several new things to pique our interest. Adding to the atmosphere there will be music at the hall forecourt all weekend. Food will also be available at venues in the village.
The organisers say this vibrant festival offers a great opportunity for people to get out, enjoy the art and experience the many family friendly, free opportunities. Artists will be on hand in their own creative environment and you are encouraged to engage with them and perhaps take the opportunity to try a new skill yourself. You can also buy direct.
While the festival proper begins on Saturday 24 October, Hannah Rose and Pauline Denton are holding a poetry evening on Friday 23rd, where you are invited to perform your original or favourite poems, stories and monologues 6pm-8pm, Te Awaroa Cafe, 54 Commercial Road. “Creative interpretations of poetry welcome. Performances under 10 minutes encouraged. Come and dine or just grab a drink and listen. There will also be acoustic music played in the interims.”
John Perry’s ‘ABC Show and Tell’ is new to the festival and promises to be popular. People are invited to take their items of interest – books, bric a brac, family heirlooms - to The Lighthouse (120 Commercial Rd) on Sunday 25 October at 4pm, where their value will be assessed. In an interlude organised by Myra from Marmalade Hats and designer Amy Howatt, local students will model especially created gowns and hats. Be early to make sure you don’t miss out.
For the past two years the treasure hunt has been a big success, creating a lot of interes
t as people scramble to find all the clues and go in the draw to win one of Jeff Thomson’s art works. This year Jeff is ringing the changes, with large, screen printed birds forming the clues. Some of the birds will be treasure hunt prizes.
The event will be COVID-19 aware, with all venues showing QR Code and will have sign hand sanitizer available.
Keep up with festival news and make email contact with your questions on the ARTS IN THE VILLE Facebook page. Detailed information about all the artists, venues etc. can be found on the website www.artsintheville.weebly.com