© Alan Frewin. Trail Number 2: Pottery and Paintings Studio
Visitors are set to flock to the beautiful Waveney Valley this weekend, keen to enter 30 art studios opened to the public just once a year, for the Harleston and Waveney Art Trail 2008.
Last year over 3,000 people came from across East Anglia and beyond to experience the annual Harleston and Waveney Art Trail. Famous for its vibrant river set in tranquil surroundings, and overflowing with nature trails, the Waveney Valley offers an excellent weekend escape.
The Art Trail, which for 2008 runs from July 5 to July 20 celebrates the work of local artists, as well as offering people the chance to purchase items at studio prices. Art is taken in the widest sense of the word with an eclectic mix of talents on offer.
The trail includes fine arts created using the traditional mediums of painting, printing mosaic and sculpture. In addition, follow the trail to explore local ceramics, glass, photography and textile works.
© David Rock. Trail number 4, Painting: Painting Ceramics Studio
"Participating artists greatly look forward to opening their studio and workshop doors for the fourth year of the trail this summer," added Honorary Secretary, Lesley Rock. "With support from South Norfolk and Mid Suffolk Councils and advertising sponsorship from Harleston businesses, the trail brings visitors to Harleston and Waveney from far and wide. It has become a key summer tourist event, and a welcome boost to the local economy."
This foot and cycle friendly trail also offers a great chance to explore the stunning Waveney Valley area along the Norfolk and Suffolk border. The historic Suffolk market town of Bungay boasts several heritage sites including Holy Trinity Church, the oldest building in the town with it's round Norman tower.
Visitors can also step back in time with a visit to the local history museums at both Diss and Harleston in Norfolk, or explore the many other attractions the trail villages offer.
© Jazz Green. Trail number 11: Mixed Media Studio
The Waveney Valley’s fresh, green landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see and its famous river has for years been an inspiration for artists. Trail painter Ian Scott explains: "My paintings are based on Norfolk and Suffolk landscapes. Inspiration comes from the seasons, the weather, architecture, flora and fauna. Everyday brings a new and stimulating challenge to record."
The local environment features heavily in the trail, whilst other themes are wide ranging, including nature in general, classic cars, dreams and travel.
A further example of work by some of the trail artists can be found in the safari that is Norwich city centre this summer. Around 50 elephant sculptures currently form Norwich’s largest ever free, outdoor art exhibition.
© Noelle Francis. Trail number 19, Painting Studio
Sponsored by South Norfolk council, trail artists have teamed up to add to the herd with their own unique fibre glass elephant sculpture. The “Are We On The Right Trail?” elephant will be located outside Cinema City, St Andrews’ Street, Norwich from 23 June to 31 August.
Entry to the Harleston and Waveney Art Trail is free, follow the trail on weekend days from July 5 to 20, between 11am and 6pm. Trail map leaflets have been distributed widely but are also available from Harleston Gallery. For further information email harlestongallery@btinternet.com or phone 01379 855 366.
Katie Brinkley is the 24 Hour Museum/Norwich HEART Student Writer in Norwich. Norwich Heritage Economic and Regeneration Trust (HEART) is the groundbreaking initiative to regenerate, manage and promote one of the most remarkable heritage resources in the UK and in Europe.
