‘Magical’ Dartmoor-inspired gallery and workshop
A new art gallery and workshop in West Devon showcases the work of local professional artists whose work reflects the history and natural world of Dartmoor and the Tamar Valley. Wildwood Arts in Horrabridge has been founded by pen and ink artist Cheri Hunston, fulfilling a dream of bringing together artists to show and share their skills: “The quality of the artists we have in the area is quite extraordinary. I wanted to create a hub for artists here, who feel the same way as I do about nature and about Dartmoor. It is an inspirational and magical place.”
The diverse artists at Wildwood Arts work in ceramics, jewellery, felting, textiles, oils, watercolours, illustration and wood. The one thing that ties them is their focus on the natural environment. For example, you’ll spot Dartmoor sheep’s wool in some of the pieces, while lichen and other foraged items are included in a lot of the displays. Eight of the 20 artisans whose work is represented at the gallery, including Cheri, are members of the Drawn to the Valley group for artists that live and work within the Tamar Valley.
One of the artists, Hilary Charlton-Woodgate, also looks after the gallery one day a week. Some of her felt and textiles pieces are designed for the wall, others to be worn, such as her Merino wool and silk waistcoat based on the River Walkham. Tessa Jane, from Yelverton, recycles textiles and other materials for her work, such as her unusual view of Calstock viaduct, which adorns one of the gallery walls. She has been invited to exhibit at the prestigious Earth, Creativity and Sustainability event at the Florence Biennale in October. Clare Law from Callington, whose textured oil paintings depict scenes from the Tamar Valley and surrounding areas, said: “I lived in London for 12 years and when I came back to Cornwall, I could see a painting everywhere I turned. The gallery is the latest evidence that the area is fast becoming a well-known cultural hub. Wildwood Arts is a wonderful space and the sort of quality outlet that artists need”.
Several of the artists at Wildwood Arts will also be running regular workshops, either from the gallery or out on location. Wildwood Arts is open 10am-4pm Tuesday to Saturday and by appointment on Sundays. Details of artists and workshops are on the website and Facebook page.
www.wildwoodarts.co.uk - www.facebook.com/wildwoodartsdartmoor