More than 230 artworks are now on display in Kirkby Gallery in the 19th Knowsley Open Art Exhibition. The exhibition, on until Saturday 20 November, shows work by artists who live, work, volunteer, or study in Knowsley, and is the biggest show staged in its history.
Artists of all ages, from 3 to 90 are included, with artwork on display that includes portraits of John Lennon, Warhol inspired Pop Art, black and white pencil drawings, beautiful landscapes depicting areas of Knowsley as well as examples of creative writing.
Cllr Shelley Powell, Knowsley Council’s Cabinet Member for Communities and Neighbourhoods said:
“The Knowsley Open Art Exhibition demonstrates the wealth of talent we have right here in the borough. It is a vibrant and inspiring reflection of our residents and those who have a close connection with Knowsley and expresses the power that art and culture has to bring people together.
“As we approach our year as Liverpool City Region Borough of Culture in 2022, it’s fantastic to see the huge response to the call out for artwork. This vast display not only shows talent we have within the borough but also the rich inspiration that’s out there within our communities, whether that be our families, nature, the architecture of where we live or issues affecting us.”
Visitors to the exhibition are invited to select two of their favourite works on show; one artwork by a young artist (under 18 years of age) and one artwork by an adult. One artist will also be selected for the Reg Robinson Prize; a special award in tribute to local artist Reg Robinson, a dedicated painter who entered works into the Open Art Exhibition from its outset and sadly passed away in 2013.
New for 2021, are also the three Adult Disability Service Prizes. More than 25 service users have entered their work and from the positive imagery of a rainbow to colourful, painterly abstractions and artworks created as creative collectives.
Cllr Powell continued:
“The people’s choice element of the exhibition allows everyone to get involved and feel part of this exciting cultural moment for Knowsley. I urge people to visit the gallery and make the difficult decision of which work is their favourite.”
Patricia Grimes, an artist who, alongside her husband Bob, has exhibited in the open Art Exhibition since it started in 2000, said:
“I used to enjoy art at school but only returned to it when I retired. We’ve exhibited as part of the Open Art exhibition for more than 20 years and we love it. The work on display is so varied, you need to come back more than once to take it all in.”
Kirkby Gallery Opening Hours
Monday to Friday: 10am – 5pm (last entry: 4.30pm)
Saturday: 10am – 1pm (last entry: 12.30pm)
