A NEW art exhibition is putting creativity centre stage in Festival Place.
Spanning more than 660 square metres, the Art Space exhibition features the work of 17 artists, with pieces on display ranging from fine art and photography to upcycled furniture.
Art House, on the upper ground floor of the shopping centre, between the Apple Store and Costa Coffee, opened on April 4 and will run until May 13.
Included in the lineup are both professional and amateur artists, with international award-winners exhibiting alongside artists whose work has been featured on the BBC and IPTV.
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Alan Stoney, Alina Luchianov, Ann Grigg, Arti Chauhan, and Emma Jansone are among those taking part, alongside Graham Mobbs, Hannah Edwards, Jillian Smith, Joan Crawford, John Saunders, and Lindsay Berry.
BetiQ Furniture, Mosaic Helen Studio, Patty Burt, Radu Cojocaru, and creative brands Retro Enterior Furniture and OMG Flowers are also involved.
One of the featured artists, Alina Luchianov, said: "Earlier this year, I discovered the inspiring initiative The Artist’s Window — a remarkable charity that supports artists by transforming vacant shop units into vibrant art spaces, hosting workshops that enrich the local community."
The charity revitalises empty retail units by turning them into engaging art spaces that benefit shoppers, families, and the broader public, while also offering exposure and support for artists.
The exhibition doubles as an interactive art studio, with workshops available throughout its duration for both adults and children.
Family-friendly sessions take place each Wednesday and Thursday.
Visitors of all ages will have the opportunity to participate in hands-on creative sessions.
These include “Stay and Play” workshops for children, where families can select art and craft kits, work together at dedicated tables, and create something to take home.
All materials are provided, and no prior experience is needed.
Parents or guardians are required to stay, participate, and supervise their children during the activities.
The exhibition is designed to be accessible and enjoyable for everyone, from art enthusiasts to families seeking a fun day out.
The event also highlights the value of repurposing vacant commercial space for positive social and cultural impact.
A second exhibition is planned from May 14 through to June 30, offering more opportunities for the public to explore and take part.
The initiative underscores the growing movement to use empty retail units in towns and cities as community-focused spaces.
By transforming unused space into a vibrant, temporary art hub, the project brings colour, activity, and opportunity back to the heart of the shopping centre.
Visitors are encouraged to follow the exhibition’s Facebook page for updates on workshops, events, and participating artists.
The Artist’s Window continues to demonstrate how creativity can connect people and transform everyday spaces into sources of inspiration, learning, and joy.
For more information, visit its website: www.the-aw.com.
Whether for the art on display, the hands-on activities, or simply to enjoy a creative atmosphere, the exhibition promises a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.
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