The vibrant 'Create It Together' exhibition is set to transform the ArtHouse venue on Eastbank Street in Southport into a celebration of local creativity. From August 18 to September 5, visitors can explore a rich tapestry of artwork produced by community members who have participated in weekly Kaleidoscope Arts workshops, run by Southport Contemporary Arts. The showcase spans multiple disciplines, including painting, pottery, and textile craft, offering a unique glimpse into the talents of homegrown makers.
Exhibition Details and Opening Times
The exhibition will be held at ArtHouse, located on Eastbank Street, Southport PR8 1EJ. It opens Tuesday to Friday from 10am to 3pm, and on Saturdays from 11am to 4pm. Admission is free, and visitors will have the opportunity not only to admire the works but also to purchase unique pieces directly from the artists. This event serves as a platform for participants to share their artistic journeys and to connect with the wider community.
Organisers emphasise that the workshops are designed to be welcoming and supportive, catering to both novices and experienced creatives. The exhibition reflects the diversity of skills and interests within the groups, from intricate textile pieces to expressive paintings and handcrafted pottery. It is a testament to the collaborative spirit that defines the Kaleidoscope Arts programme.
Tutor and Participant Insights
Amanda Clark-Price, a mixed-media tutor, shared her enthusiasm for the classes: "I really enjoy teaching the Mixed-Media drawing and painting classes. It is a lovely, supportive group with a mixture of abilities and experiences. It isn’t a course as such. We cover pencil, soft pastels, pen and ink, watercolour and acrylic paint, collage - also various printing techniques. We work on experimenting with materials and techniques and learning together – it’s lovely to see people becoming more confident as they progress and their work develops."
Group member Rena White echoed this sentiment: "The sessions are fun, friendly and supportive without any pressure. Members of the class have different interests and skills so we can also learn from each other and suggest new areas we might like to explore."
Linda Hawksley, a participant from Tarleton, praised the textile group: "This is a great group for anyone who loves textiles and wants to explore using them in various art forms. It’s for those of us who just ‘like to have a go’ and try something new. Led by an inspirational textile artist with plenty of encouragement from talented, friendly members."
Textile and Pottery Workshops
Textile tutor Jo Landy described her class: "The Creative Textile class is a joy to teach - all abilities are catered for and the class members derive a great deal of inspiration and encouragement from each other. We cover all aspects of textiles including print, stitch, felt making and heat techniques and it is lovely to see new skills being learned and translated into finished pieces. Everyone works at their own pace and they continue to surprise me with very individual and quality work."
Attendee Lee Samuels added: "I love coming to Jo’s textile class, she’s a wonderful tutor who inspires us all in so many ways. I’ve learnt so much and achieved many different skills. I enjoy spending time with a great bunch of women who are all very supportive of each other. We also have lovely cake!"
Pottery studio manager Merv Thomas highlighted the broader benefits: "Our students are from all walks of life. Some are looking to develop new skills whilst others are seeking to hone their existing expertise, all in a safe friendly environment. Mindfulness and managing the stresses of everyday life are also important to many of our students." Ceramics instructor Alice Odgers added: "Being part of a network of people expressing themselves through creativity is amazing. Our sessions and its members are diverse, each with their own pottery styles and abilities. It's great to see the students work with one another, to see ideas grow and confidence flourish during our pottery sessions, which is reflected in the works on display."
Specialised Classes and Community Impact
Linda Heavon, tutor of an autism-friendly class, explained: "The Autism Friendly guys have been exploring different media this year. Getting out of our comfort zone is never easy, swapping watercolours for lino printing, acrylics for oil pastels, using stamps and making collages from the papers we’ve marbled is maybe just the beginning of a new way of creating for us - watch this space."
Becky Atherton, painting pastime tutor, noted: "The Painting Pastime class enables the group to explore their own practice, develop skills, find their own identity and interests within the art world. Exploration, confidence, learning new skills, making friends and being part of a creative, supportive group are the main aim of the class."
The exhibition not only showcases finished works but also underscores the social and personal development that occurs within these sessions. Participants gain confidence, form friendships, and discover new passions, all within a nurturing environment. The event is a celebration of this growth, as reflected in the diverse and personal pieces on display.
How to Get Involved
Norrie Beswick Calvert, director of Southport Contemporary Arts, concluded: "We are really proud of the developments that our students make and seeing their individuality shine through is an added bonus. If you’re thinking of making a start on, or developing your skills, why not think about joining one of our small group, friendly sessions and let your creativity fly!"
For more information about the exhibition or the workshops, visit www.sca-network.co.uk or email arthousesca@gmail.com. Whether you are an art enthusiast or simply curious, the 'Create It Together' exhibition promises to be an inspiring and welcoming event for all.
