Cumbria's C-Art Festival is underway.
Around 115 artists from across the county have opened their galleries to the public from now until 27th September.
There's an extended programme of art installations set up in heritage settings such as Wray Castle and Lowther Castle.
One of the artists exhibiting in extraordinary places is Sarah Tew, recently selected as Cumbrian Artist of the Year 2015, who will be in residence at the former studio of the famous 20th Century Kurt Schwitters. Merz Barn near Elterwater will be home to Sarah’s large-scale installations and smaller edition prints.
Emerging Cumbrian Artist Sarah formed part of the inaugural Cumbrian Artist of the Year exhibition held at Rheged between April and June earlier in the year.
The exhibition attracted over 6000 visitors who were treated to various mediums showcasing the very best of contemporary Cumbrian visual arts.
C-Art is working with The National Trust and key cultural destinations to promote art within beautiful heritage settings. Venues include Lowther Castle, Florence Mine, Wray Castle, Allan Bank and Haig Pit.
Other highlights include a swarm of porcelain insects populating the majestic Carlisle Cathedral (an installation by Christine Hurford and an exhibition of sculpture by the artist Rowena Beaty set within the beautiful confines of the little known St Mary’s Church in the village of Wreay the interior of which was designed in 1840 by Sarah Losh. Sally Bamber will be drawing inspiration from John Ruskin’s former home at Brantwood by painting the flowers found on the estate, while Charlie Whinney will be creating site specific installations in his inimitable style in the grounds of Sizergh Castle truly making this an adventure beyond gallery walls.
Also taking place are other cultural events including a special poetry performance on the 20th September that will take place at Brantwood, former home of John Ruskin, amongst the watercolour paintings of Sally Bamber and also the annual Brougham Photofest from 11th -13th September which will include exhibition, live performances and workshops.
“Once again there is a fantastic array of work across the studios and galleries and in the ‘extraordinary places’, says Adrian Lochhead, Director of Eden Arts, “it is a real pleasure to help to promote our Cumbrian artists through the hugely successful C-Art programme”.
Catalogues will be available from participating galleries, Tourist Information Centres and via the C-Art website throughout August and September. A full list of participating galleries and artists can be found on the C-Art website www.c-art.org.uk