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With over 80 regional artists, more than 1,000 pieces of artwork and army of volunteers, one of Cheshire's best-loved art exhibitions returns to Macclesfield Town Hall next week.
From 26th September until 3rd October, the event will be open every day from 10.30am-5pm selling an amazing array of art including works by Ralph McGaul, Harry Brioche and Lou Gardiner. The Manchester Academy of Fine Arts also has representation from many of its members; Ron Coleman, Angela Herd Hall, Iola Spafford, Kate Collins, John McPake, Norman Long, Bert Yates and Kevin Haynes are all taking part, some for the first time this year.
Paintings, jewellery, ceramics, glassware, willow weaving and handcrafted furniture will all be available to buy during the 8-day long exhibition which this year is celebrating its 20th birthday. It has been raising funds for East Cheshire Hospice since 1999 when it was first started by Anna Rains. Anna said, "We started something which was only going to be a one-off art fair, but has become a tradition and a major part of the Hospice's important resources. One simple idea has now contributed some £350k to the Hospice."
Each participating artist contributes at least 40% of their sales to the Hospice and it is this combination of art and giving that has made Art Fair Cheshire such a success. Entirely run by volunteers it relies on an army of people who give up their time to ensure that there is plenty of tea and cakes in the pop up café, catalogues are sold and art displayed and enjoyed.
There will also be a series of 'Art Inspired' talks during the event with author Ross King discussing his book, Mad Enchantment: Claude Monet and the Painting of the Water Lilies; MAFA member Norman Long demonstrating painting a portrait from life in oils; Sue Astles will be remembering her uncle, artist Harry Ousey, who was much inspired by the landscape of the local area; and Susie MacMurray, who will be discussing her work including Gathering, which is on display at Tatton Park. Full details are on the website.
Entry to Art Fair Cheshire is free, as are the talks. Why not come along, enjoy our pop-up café and see, enjoy and buy some fantastic art, all for a great cause? East Cheshire Hospice relies on donations and fundraising for 87% of its funding – come and visit Art Fair Cheshire and help to support this charity that in turn supports our community so well.
