Seahouses main street transforms into art gallery

Jun 13 2009 by Richard Fletcher, The Journal

Graeme said: “She thought she could get a whole load of local artists to bring their work of the local landscape together, so she’s done that side of things, going to the artists to collate it, while I’ve gone round the shops asking them to join in and allow this exhibition to be put in their window space. They’ve all been very kind.

“The paintings will have to fit in where they can, in juxtaposition with the usual shop stuff, like in the butcher’s. It might be a little bit odd but it will add an unusual element to it.”

The exhibition will form part of the annual festival in Seahouses, which has run for about 10 years and will be taking place this time on June 20 and 21.

The festival has expanded from its more humble beginnings as a sea shanty festival celebrating fishing and the area’s marine heritage. Although there is still an element of that, it has now grown and brings together many aspects of North Northumberland life, including art, music, dance, fishing and craft.

On the art scene, Sarah Riseborough will also be involved in a giant installation measuring 10ft by 16ft, which she will actually paint over the two days on site.

It will be positioned down by the harbour so she can create a seascape, helped by school parties. Next to it will be the harbour stage, with an eclectic mix of music including jazz, rock and folk, with another stage in one of the churches.

This year’s theme is celebrating natural heritage, so there will also be nature exploration events for children, as well as dancing, crafts, food and stalls, all kicking off with a natural heritage film by Jimmy France from Seahouses.

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