If you are looking for a distraction from the Christmas shopping rush and piped music then make a trip along to see the wonderful exhibition of Children’s book illustrators currently on show at Gracefield Arts Centre in Dumfries.
The exhibition ‘Picture Hooks’ is the result of a project run by the National Gallery of Scotland to pair well-established children’s book illustrators, like Nick Sharrat, (famous for his Jaqueline Wilson book covers), with younger up-and coming illustrators like Tracey Smith. Their artworks and panels about the project are show alongside each other and there are lots of samples of their books to read and enjoy.
A popular show with younger visitors and schools the feedback has been great: “So much talent: I’m blown away!”, “Inspiring, Beautiful Work – thank you for bringing them here” are among the visitors comments so far.
There’s a selection of quiz sheets and drawing materials for you to try your hand, and alongside Picture Hooks show, local illustrator Cathy Sidhu from Eskdalemuir features some of her work – including her very first professional illustration. Her friend and colleague Cliff Wright is also showing his work – Cliff is best known for his work with JK Rowling and we have some of his illustrations from the Harry Potter books for visitors to enjoy.
Communities Chair, Councillor Tom McAughtrie commented “The illustration works are so varied and it’s exciting to see the Harry Potter drawings – you see them reproduced but the originals just have something special”.
‘Picture Hooks’ runs until Saturday 7th January, but Gracefield does close for a break at Christmas and New Year, from 3pm on the 24th December ‘til 10am on the 4th. The exhibition is open Tuesday – Saturday 10am-5pm, admission free.
If you are still looking to start (or finish) your Christmas shopping, Gracefield’s Christmas exhibition ‘All Wrapped Up’ features a specially selected range of art and craft from UK-wide and Dumfries and Galloway artists and makers. The gallery 2 exhibition will be complemented by smaller-scale pieces in the craft shop so whether you are looking for that ‘forever artwork’ for someone special or an interesting and unique stocking filler, we’ve got it all wrapped up…
Just some of the featured artist and makers are: Andrew Adair, paintings/ceramics, Heather Andrews jewellery, Helen Clues, mosaic/decorations, Geoff Forrest, willow sculpture/platters, Linda Lovatt, assemblages, Morag McPherson, textiles, Sam Samson, sculpture and household, Urpu Sellar sculptures/Ceramics A Sterling Idea, jewellery Michael Wolchover, photography/silk scarves & ties, Jo Walker, ceramics Penny Withers, ceramic vessels and Anna Wright, new illustration artwork, books, mugs.
Join Geoff Forrest, willow weaver for a free drop in taster session on Tuesday 20th December form 12-2.30pm and try your hand at a Christmas star!
Visit the website at www.dumgal.gov.uk/gracefield or check out Facebook and Twitter. There’s plenty parking and our lovely Café Hubbub to make a fantastic free outing for all the family.
For further information contact: Dawn Henderby (Arts Officer)
Telephone: 01387 262084 Fax: 01387 255173
e-mail: [email protected]
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