Dorset Art Weeks 2021 begins

Dorset Art Weeks has returned following a year's break due to the pandemic, and local artists are preparing to showcase their work.

Galleries, studios and even tourist attractions will transform into spaces for art lovers to come and marvel at the craft of some of Dorset's most impressive artists.

Nothe Fort will exhibit paintings, photographs, textiles, ceramics, glassware and sculpture by a host of local artists, including Clarke Reynold, a partially blind artist who will display work he has created featuring braille.

He said: "I want my art to be experienced by everyone, regardless of whether they can see or have a visual impairment.

"Words are hugely important as they are the means to describe what a visually impaired person can see, and braille is a tactile language that helps people with low vision to read."

Clarke Reynolds has created a series of artwork using braille Picture: Cove Gallery

Colin Wiley will display his paintings at a studio in Dorchester.

He said: "My painting subjects are landscape, seascape and occasional still life. I love to paint from life, trying to capture the atmosphere and particular light of a subject."

Work created by students will be on show at Weymouth College. A spokesman said: "We are pleased to present a dynamic exhibition of contemporary art, design and photography created using the excellent facilities at Weymouth College.

"Using the traditional print workshop, 3D workshop, textile studio, painting studio and digital suite, our students have explored the media and processes that excite them to produce work that pushes and develops their personal approach."

This year, organisers of Dorset Art Weeks, which runs from May 22 to June 6, have created a mobile app so members of the public can see the opening times for each venue, some of which require booking in advance to ensure they are Covid-secure.

A spokesman for Dorset Art Weeks said: "Some choose this year to exhibit online, others by appointment visits only, some open like normal and, to allow for a greater flexibility for all involved, the opening times and status of all venues is available on the website and app. Make sure you check the day of your visit to avoid disappointment.

"However you choose to enjoy Dorset Art Weeks this year, there will be something for all tastes and price ranges. Please enjoy all visits safely and respect all Covid-safe measures that have been put in place."

For information on all the events visit www.dorsetartweeks.co.uk