Opening of Town Hall's new "Exhibition Space" - 03/11/06
Work by 21 local artists has been chosen for the inaugural
event at the magnificent new "Exhibition Space" at Barry's
impressive Town Hall.
To be opened on Friday, November 17, the exhibitors in "Vale
Artists Unveiled" were selected after an invitation from the Vale
of Glamorgan Council's arts development unit for expressions of
interest.
The space is certainly impressive and, in years to come, is
expected to showcase wonderful art work by exhibitors from across
the globe.
Vale arts development officer Tracey Harding headed the
selection panel, and the work of the first landmark exhibitors
encompasses art in a variety of forms including wood, painting and
ceramics.
The talented artists include Dean Christopher, who specialises
in contemporary paintings influenced by Seventies music in New
York, Carl Chappel (life paintings) and Iris Debly, who will
showcase her work on canvas themed with water giving life. Also
included is work by contemporary ceramic artists Melanie Force and
Paul Baker
Also represented are Vale of Glamorgan Artists (VOGA) who first
formed nearly a decade ago. They are keen to promote a greater
awareness of the visual arts through increased contacts between
artists, their work and the general public. Their current
membership includes sculptors, printmakers, photographers and those
who work in 3D computer graphics and they have toured
Internationally displaying interesting pieces. Particularly
noteworthy were major exhibitions at the Vale’s twin towns of
Rheinfelden (Germany) and Fécamp (France). Confirmed VOGA artists
are Ann Townson, Sue Rimmer, Shirley Ann Owen, Richard O’Connell,
Peter Moudling, Richard Irwin, Robert Hart, Eve Hart, Jean Francis,
Eileen Allan and Lewis Allan.
Tracey Harding said: “The space will really offer something for
everyone. We are delighted that we can display a varied range of
high quality art work and so proud that residents and visitors
alike can enjoy this central facility for free.”
"‘Vale Artists Unveiled" will run from November 17 until
Wednesday, January 31, 2007. Thereafter, a continuing and exciting
programme will be in place.
Cllr Michael Harvey, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Tourism
and Leisure, said: “The Exhibition Space is just one of the
highlights that marks the completion of the £10m regeneration
scheme breathing new life into Barry.
"The new County Library, Town Hall, King Square and Central Park
have been funded mainly by the Vale Council through its capital
programme, with grant aid support from others.”
To mark the occasion, there will be a free fun packed event
starting at 4pm on November 17 – all are welcome. Events officer
Sarah Jones has organised a selection of live music, street
entertainers, fire jugglers and food stalls.
Council Leader Cllr Jeffrey James, and Children in Need's Pudsey
Bear will switch on the Town Hall's Christmas Lights at 6pm.
Sponsored by Kier Western, there will be be a spectacular firework
display from 8pm.
For more information on the "Exhibition Space" or arts
development, telephone Tracey Harding on (01446) 704828 or, for
further details on the November 17 event, telephone Sarah Jones on
(01446) 704736.