Painting, printing, pottery, photos

Sorry if the four Ps don't capture all the visual arts and crafts on show at the Festival Fringe in 2007. This year's shows are amongst the richest we've had in terms of range and many of the shows are on throughout the Festival, so no excuses for missing out.

We've mentioned Alan Bailey once already on this Blog - but he is an old mate of the Fringe so this modest display of croneyism should be allowed by even our fiercest critics. Alan's Peak District landscapes are always admired - he captures the grey skies and storms very well. Those of you that think it's always a bit damp on the moors may find your fears confirmed.

The cafe, Project X is hosting what looks to be an interesting show by two local artists - 'Finding the Thread' uses a range of media. The image on the website gives a hint of what you might find.
There are a number of big shows - displaying the work of a host of artists. The High Peak Artists and Craft Workers' show will have work from 36 artists for viewing and sale in the Pump Room. A fascinating variety is always shown in a compact and interesting space. I remember when it was the Micrarium.

For one day only - 21 July - the Burbage Art Group has an exhibition with workshop and cakes (for eating I think). This is their 10th anniversary show.

There are four separate events in the Buxton Museum. The biggest show is likely to be the Derbyshire Open which showcases work of artists from all around the county. The standard, as you'd expect, is high. More Peak District landscapes - oils by Duncan Pass - will make for an interesting comparison will Alan Bailey's watercolours. For those wanting to 'do' rather than view, on the 21st there are two workshops in Roman plaque making. Minimal Latin required. Finally in the Museum is Carola Colley's exhibition which looks to be an intriguing companion piece with 'Finding the Thread' at Project X.

Finally, but not least, in this section is the Flower Festival at St Anne's Church next door to the Museum. I know nothing about the history or traditions of this sort of floral arrangement. I'm not sure that it is widely done in other countries but it always seems very British. (Though if it became part of any nationality test I'd be rapidly excluded I fear).
Check times, dates, venues etc (most of these are free!) atwww.buxtonfringe.org.uk


by Keith Savage - Published 04/06/2007