Art in Poundbury announce Art in the Squares summer project

Art in the Squares is this year’s summer project, an outside painting event organised by Art in Poundbury.

It will take place across five locations on Saturday, June 22. It will start in Jubilee Hall from 10am when everyone will go off to their location and paint the day away until 4pm.

Everyone can take part in the event on the day, with categories for artists under the age of 16, for amateur artists and professional artists. Judges will award two prizes in the three categories.

When the work is judged, photographs of all entries will be taken for an online gallery, whilst there will be space for the winner’s work to feature in the group’s community winter exhibition.

Artistic Director Judy Tate, said: “It’s not just artists, it’s about the public coming along and enjoying a family day out, be it painting or talking with artists.

“It’s really a fun, light-hearted event focused on the community. The thought of people aged between 10 to 85 from varying levels of amateur to professional working alongside each other is wonderful.”

“It will be an opportunity for people to look at the different styles of painting from classical to contemporary and maybe even abstract depending on the artists.”

One location to pick from is the Duchy Farmhouse. Ms Tate said this spot will conjure interesting architecture, blending with well-established tree views.

Queen Mother Square was highlighted as an obvious choice by organisers, with it featuring the prominent statue and differing architecture.

Those who enjoy painting long distance views, rolling green fields and agricultural sights can gather at the Royal Pavilion Green.

Coade Square is new to the development of Poundbury, and was selected by organisers for this reason, as well as it being a comfortable area with seating available.

Ms Tate described Hayward Square as being similar to Cornwall with its terraced housing, again bringing a different element and painting styles.

Last year, the theme of Art in Poundbury’s summer project was Art in the Park, inspired by the Sky Landscape Artist of the Year, which saw around 90 artists ranging from between four to 90 years-old. Ms Tate revealed that two paintings last year were sold whilst still on their easels.

“The sun shone last year and it was lovely, so we wanted to do something along the same lines but change it up a bit,” Ms Tate added.

Ms Tate will also be painting on the day, but has not decided on a location yet, saying she will walk around the area before hand to decide on the perfect spot.

In the event of heavy persistent rain, the event will be cancelled 48 hours before.

Entry is free for children under 16, but those under 12 must be accompanied by a adult. Entry for people over 16 is £5.

To register for the event online, visit https://artinpoundbury.co.uk/art-in-the-squares-application-form/