If you have never been to the Ace Centre, do yourselves a favour and go. There are all sorts of events on all the time - from tea dances to films and theatrical performances. For instance "Bullets and Daffodils" the musical drama about the life and work of Wilfred Owen the First World War Poet was on last Thursday. There is so much to see and a lovely Bistro open for superb food and drink with a patio for sunny days. I keep saying "every town should have an Ace Centre".
The Art Exhibition was truly fantastic - there were several categories - photographs, paintings and drawings, portraits, ceramics and sculpture to name but a few - and a chance for those under 18, under 12 and under 7 to take part and show their artistic talent off. And what a high standard - the public were asked to vote and it was no easy task.
There were stands of every description showing off craft work - I would have needed a week at least to do all of them justice. As it was in the brief time available I saw and chatted to the following people:
Wynne Barnes Calligraphy and Illumination (as well as beautiful cards and wonderful calligraphy and illuminations, Wynne has also written a fascinating book called "A Window into the World of Visual Communication" and did you know there was a Pencil Museum in the Lake District?); Pendle Witch T-Shirts - very spooky and just right for Halow'een but also to spread the word about the Pendle Witches - www.pendlewitchtshirts.co.uk) and Sandra Holmes coin purses, etc. at reddevil Crafts.
After a delicious lunch in the Ace Centre's lovely Bistro, we moved on to the Art and Vintage Market - again so much to see - here are just a few to whet your appetite:
Sam Amir Eastern Fashion Design (Sam is setting up shortly in Skipton and has some fantastic designs); Barbara at Not only but also; Ian McKay, beautiful hand made jewellery using lovely stones by Ati and Ayu; the most fascinating idea - Taxidermy design - Nicola Jayne Hebson - very original idea; Anita Burrows told us all about Arts on Prescription - courses to help people "make stuff - make friends and make life better" (far better that sitting watching the telly!); and MH creative vintage photography.
There are more vintage and retro events planned - have a look at www.craftyvintage.com
Thank you to all the wonderful staff at the Ace Centre, to all the people who submitted entries to the Open Art Exhibition and to everyone who had a stall at the Ace Centre and the Art & Vintage Market.
More info: http://www.pendlegallery.blogspot.co.uk/
