Ashburton boasts some of ‘The Best of the West’ art, artists and artisans - Sue Sturton of Ashburn Gallery highlights some of Ashburtons gems!
Music
Ashburton has become a destination for those with an interest in the world of creative arts. Already hosting the thriving Ashburton Arts Centre with a bursting calendar of highly acclaimed musical and theatre productions, Ashburton also boasts some of ‘The Best of the West’ art, artists and artisans. All tastes are catered for from internationally renowned jazz music, to mesmerising paintings and hand crafted ethical jewellery, Ashburton is a small town with a big repertoire.
Art
Art lovers and curious wanderers will be surprised and delighted at the diversity
At the ‘foot’ of Dartmoor, one of the country’s most iconic areas of outstanding natural beauty; the natural magic certainly touches the creative businesses throughout the town. Perhaps unsurprisingly then, the town is well served by artists and makers, many of whom exhibit annually in the Dartmoor Artists Exhibition in the Town Hall and the Devon Open Studios event. Art lovers and curious wanderers will be surprised and delighted at the diversity of handmade and unique creations and creative experiences that are available.
The Ashburn Gallery, a three story 16th century building on the bank of the River Ashburn, exhibits contemporary art work across all genres with paintings from celebrated UK and local artists. A regularly changing exhibition schedule includes paintings, ceramics, textiles, glass and hand-made jewellery.
Jewellery
Inspiration comes from her surroundings; Devon’s natural beauty!
For lovers of hand-crafted jewellery, there are several independent jewellers: Shakti Ellenwood is a renowned designer of ethical jewellery, whose handcrafted creations offer a unique blend of beauty and integrity. Kate Higham has developed a special affinity with the different qualities of the stones and precious metals she uses. She does not impose elaborate settings on her work, characterised by her signature organic textured finish, but rather seeks to assemble and craft together the metals, beads and stones so that the innate differences enhance one another. Inspiration comes from her surroundings; Devon’s natural beauty!
Photography
Photographer Mark Burley’s work captures the wild and sometimes haunting and desolate terrain of Dartmoor. His Sherewood Gallery also displays his photographic images of local beach scenes and his almost abstract interpretations of local landmarks
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