Smithfield is further entrenching its position as an arts centre with the opening this evening (Friday, 26th) of the art exhibition which marks the opening activity in this year’s BibberChill Festival.
The exhibition has attracted a strong list of local and other entries, with all types of artwork being exhibited, including paintings, sketches, sculpture and photographs.
Works by local artists are finding an increasing number of buyers in many parts of the country, which is encouraging for all concerned.
Among our very active resident artists are Geoff and Anne Montgomery, Peter Retief, Lynden and Rose Lund, Susan Jewell, Fabrice Rebouillet and Anette Malherbe. On the craft side is the work of the energetic Lappies Ladies’ which is widely admired and has great commercial potential if they ever decided to go that route. Also in crafts, Miemie Pretorius has recently qualified as a book restorer and we wish her well with her work. Incidentally, she mentioned the other day receiving a commission by advertising in Smiffie.
In the past few years the number of people working in various arts and craft forms in and around Smithfield has expanded enormously. The growth in all this artistic activity has not only increased the general appeal of Smithfield and area but has given a huge boost to the artists and crafters. There is nothing more rewarding for them than to interact with likeminded people.
The result is that the range of local activity is from professional and established artists to amateurs and beginners. They work in various media – oil, acrylic, watercolour, pencil and charcoal, and styles range from naturalistic to naive.
The Art Exhibition in the Red Barn opens at 17:00 Friday 26th. Lizette Prinsloo, deputy chairman of the BibberChill Committee will make the formal opening address at 18:00.
Sherry, wine and snacks will be provided by the Smithfield artists. The exhibition will run from 09:00 to 16:00 tomorrow (Saturday). At 14:30pm the Grey Band will perform outside the Red Barn.
