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We're delighted to be taking enquiries for 2024 & 2025 at Artizan Gallery with fully curated, stewarded and promoted exhibition offers on the English Riviera. Our 2024 rates start from £200/artist for a 3-week show, representing excellent value for fully stewarded exhibition packages. The deadline for the third round of submissions is February 29th. If you'd like to know more about exhibiting with us before you make a booking enquiry, give us a call on 07522509642 or drop any questions to us in an email at juliebrandon@artizangallery.co.uk How It Works We know there isn't a "one size fits all" exhibition package so we don't try and shoehorn artists into a standard format model. All our bookings are bespoke with a focus on offering as much flexibility as possible whilst still keeping it all simple. Exhibition Types We've come up with some handy categories for types of bookings to accommodate different needs, so whether you're enquiring on behalf of yourself, a group, or you want to be matched with other artists we're able to help. We'll ask you to pick from: A Solo Show (just for you!) A Group Show (where you know all the participants) An Open Show (for a group, society or on a theme you want to explore) Group Match (if you want to exhibit with other artists but don't have a group) Temporary Studio Hire (for short terms studio projects) Exhibition Spaces We're fortunate enough to have three exhibition spaces at the venue that can be booked individually or in a range of combinations to give you the right space for your work: Main Exhibition Space (our larger gallery suitable for groups) Courtyard Exhibition Space (our rear airy space suitable for a couple of artists or a larger group when booking with other spaces) Basement Exhibition Space (our contemporary white box space perfect for unique solos) Basement Studio Space (our basement exhibition space setup for your studio needs) Exhibition Window After that, you just add on your exhibition window, with 3 week blocks available from now until the end of 2025. What You Get Click items to expand for more info. Discover the Spaces Browse images from a selection of previous exhibitions that we've hosted to get an idea of the space. If you'd like a more detailed view, either pay us a visit, or get in touch and we can provide video walkthroughs an additional images. Important Information Before you make a booking enquiry you'll want to check our dates, rates and terms, all of which can be found at the below links. Make sure you have reviewed our 2024/25 fees before making a booking, view below or available here. Make sure you have reviewed our 2024/25 calendar slots, view below or available here. Make sure you have reviewed our Terms and Conditions, available here. If you are accepted for an exhibition booking, it is understood that you have read and agreed to the details contained in the above documents. Fill in a Booking Enquiry If you're ready to make a booking enquiry, you'll want to make sure you have the below information: The name and contact details for your lead applicant (you if you're making a enquiry about a solo exhibition) The type of booking you require: Solo Exhibition, Group Exhibition (up to 8 artists), Open Exhibition (i.e. for a large group or society), Group Matching (you want us to pair you with other artists), or Temporary Studio Space. The spaces you would like to book: Main Gallery, Courtyard Gallery, Basement Gallery The number of artists in your group Your first preference exhibition period (see available dates here) Any other exhibition periods you would be interested in The names and at least one online link for each participating artist A summary of your exhibition You can use the embedded form below or alternatively load it in a new window here. Alternatively, you can send the above information to us in an email.

Based on the Elizabeth Gaskell stories and the hit TV series featuring the likes of Judi Dench, Imelda Staunton and Julia McKenzie - the play is the story of one Christmas in the village of Cranford... Deep in the frosty English countryside, chestnuts are roasting and carols are being sung as the folk of Cranford busily prepare for Christmas. Join Miss Pole, Miss Matty and Mrs Jamieson as they warm their frozen hands on cups of cocoa and bedeck the houses with holly and mistletoe. But beyond this cosy hubbub of festivity, and when disaster strikes, the community must unite to keep the spirit of Christmas alive. A heart-warming tale of charity and goodwill to all women and men to celebrate the most magical time of year. By Laura Turner, Based on the Cranford Stories by Elizabeth Gaskell Monday 11th – Saturday 16th December 2023 Little Theatre, Torquay Tickets are on sale now and selling fast so be sure to Book Today! Further Details: Performances Monday 11th to Saturday 16th December 2023 Nightly at 7:30pm (Saturday Matinee at 2:30pm) Ticket Prices: Adults £14.00 Senior Citizens £13.00 (60 and Over) Child £9.00 (Booking Fees apply for all online bookings) Telephone Box Office: 01803 299330 Open Tues-Fri (10am-12noon) and one hour before each performance. Book Online: www.toadslittletheatre.co.uk CAST Miss Matty - Adele Reynolds Miss Pole - Rona Perry Mrs Jamieson - Fi Humphreys Lady Glenmire - Jo Neagle Mrs Forrester - Mary Qiriaqi Mary - Alison Brooks Betty - Fi White Martha – Sophie Scott Peter – Gary Hobbs Major – Steve Brown Jem - Jolyon Tuck Mr Mulliner – Andy Killen Dr Hoggins - Steve Wreford Thomas – Martin Sharp Mistletoe Seller – Alan Hargreaves Singer – Wendy Lockyer Walters Peppo the dog – Katie (courtesy of Julie & David Hancocks) Musician/Villager : Chris Robson Directed by Jill Pettigrew Photographer credit: Brian Tilley. - Rehearsals #TOADS #EnglishRiviera

The residents of Melville are looking to continue expressing their story through art via the creation of a historical art trail. Through local expertise and community storytelling, a heritage narrative unique to the area has been created, and residents are looking for an artist to support them in bringing this story to life. The project continues an extensive piece of place making and public realm work that has been undertaken by Groundwork South Trust that is inspiring pride in the Melville community. The trail will: Tell Melville’s unique heritage story; Consist of 5-10 locations across the Melville area with a minimum of 3 core works at key locations, and up to 7 supporting works to create the trail; Incorporate a timeline that maps the trail at one of the core locations; Engage with and respond to an existing community mural delivered as part of the Melville place making project; Includes interactive elements that celebrate the community spirit and positive thinking of residents. The ongoing activity being delivered by Groundwork South Trust has enabled the community to explore various opportunities for creative interventions in the public realm. Whilst artworks will need to practically respond to a range of settings, it is anticipated that the existing programme has revealed opportunities for diverse interventions including installations on existing structures, interacting with street furniture, planters, noticeboards, hoardings and potentially windows and walls of private properties. We have a short window for receiving expressions of interest for this artwork commission opportunity, so we have endeavoured to make the process as light touch as possible for artists who want to make an approach. We would encourage any artist interested to reach out to us on 07762 921571 for enquiries related to this opportunity so we can best enable people through this fast-tracked process. Full details can be downloaded in PDF format here. Responses should be submitted to jacobbrandon@artizangallery.co.uk Dates Expressions of Interest Live - 16th October Heritage/Project Context Pack available to applicants - 20th October Deadline for Expressions of Interest - 29th October, Midnight Community Panel Review EoIs - 30th October – 1st November Shortlisted Artists Confirmed - 2nd November Shortlisted Artists Attend Engagement Coffee Morning (Required, Funded) - 4th November, 12:00-14:00 Design Period (Funded) - 5th - 9th November Design Clarifications Sought (if required) - 10th November Community Panel Makes Final Selection - 11th November Confirmation of Selected Artist - 11th November Delivery Window - 12th November – 8th December Evaluation Period - 8th – 15th December

English Riviera Winter Open Our final exhibition for 2023 is upon us, the English Riviera Winter Open 2023. If you've exhibited in our open exhibitions before you know the drill, but for newcomers our annual, seasonal opens are the biggest, and most ambitious visual arts showcases in South Devon, as we turn the walls of our highstreet gallery into a tapestry of original art from creatives all over the country. This year, as part of our Summer Open we introduced our showcase values which guide the curation of our open exhibitions. These are: Diversity and Variety - we take a range of traditional and contemporary practice, selecting works that result in a showcase rich in media, subject and style; Originality and Innovation - this isn't an exhibition that just "plays it safe", we love traditional work, but equally we want to share work with audiences that they may not find anywhere else; Quality and Talent - we select the best to create a showcase for our audience where they can guarantee they'll be taking away collectible, original work that can't be found anywhere else. As always, we can't wait to see your submissions, and look forward to celebrating the end of an incredible year of visual art with you! Another change we introduced this year was that fees are now only payable if you are successful in having work selected for the exhibition. We'll be taking fees at the point of submission, but if we don't accept your work on this occasion we'll refund your fee in full. UPDATE: Based on interest from several artists, we have reinstated single entry submissions. Single entry submissions are charged at £10 but unfortunately are NOT refundable. Key Dates: Deadline for Entries: Thursday 19th October, Midday Confirmation of Entries: Thursday 19th October, Midnight Start Date: Sunday 5th November, 11am End Date: Sunday 24th December Launch Date: Saturday 4th November, 18:00-20:00 Delivery Week: 20th October, 09:00 - 29th October, 16:00 (bookable on acceptance) Hang Week: 29th October - 4th November (artists are not required but should be prepared to receive work queries during this period) Key Links: Submission Form (Google, external): www.art-hub.co.uk/erwo23form PDF Form: https://1drv.ms/b/s!AogSEXwZ5CTjoOtYkK5bVAahMHe5lQ?e=oxgK5z Curatorspace: https://www.curatorspace.com/opportunities/detail/english-riviera-winter-open/7672 Exhibitors Terms: www.art-hub.co.uk/exhibitorsterms Payment Link: www.art-hub.co.uk/product-page/erwopayment Supply Images: imagesubmission@artizangallery.co.uk Submission Form: Due to a bug with our website provider, we cannot currently provide an embedded version of our submission form. Please use the external link to provide your submission: www.art-hub.co.uk/erwo23form

Artizan Collective is delighted to announce a weekend of outdoor art inspired by plein air tradition, as with the help of ten professional artists, we take over the streets and seafront to show off this creative town like you’ve never seen it before. “Plein air” is French for “out of doors” so the tradition literally means leaving the studio to directly observe the landscape and paint outside. It’s a centuries old practice but was popularised by the French Impressionist movement and the desire to capture ephemeral qualities of light. But we’re talking plein air with a difference, and whilst we celebrate the work this painting tradition is synonymous with, we’ll also be welcoming a range of incredible artists with unique, contemporary outdoor practice. Spread over two days, a range of events will celebrate Paignton’s built heritage and start conversations about the creativity of the town. On Day 1, see if you can spot one of our artists creating live and find out about the buildings that have caught their attention. Then on Day 2, it’s your turn! Join us all on the seafront as we invite you to “Paint Paignton” with us. Whether you’re a pro, an aspiring talent, or have never picked up a brush before, this day is open to everyone to get involved. Bring your favourite art supplies or pick some freebies up on the day from our art station, and whether you’re a painter, prefer charcoals, or sketch on your iPad, it doesn’t matter, so long as you come on down to help us gather the biggest group of artists Paignton Green has ever seen. Get tips and advice, watch live demos throughout the day, but most importantly, create! The Great Paignton Paint Out takes over from 22nd-24th September but look out for artists popping up throughout the month or even have a go at “Painting Paignton” yourself. For tips on getting creative outdoors and to find out more about the full schedule of events, head to www.artizangallery.co.uk/paigntonpaintout The Great Paignton Paint Out is part of “Wide Open” a programme of activity curated by Filament Works CIC and supported by Tonic Creatives CIC. It is funded as part of Torbay’s Cultural Development Fund, a Department for Culture, Media & Sport (DCMS) fund, administered by Arts Council England. Dates and Event Schedule Day 1 - Painting Paignton: Artist Heritage Trail - Saturday 23rd September - 10:00-16:00 Discover Paignton's Heritage Through the Eyes of Professional Artists Eight artists take over Paignton to create new works on location across the town. Will you stumble across a couple of them, or walk the whole trail, discovering some of Paignton's heritage treasures along the way and seeing them through the eyes of unique contemporary artists. The "Painting Paignton: Artist Heritage Trail" starts from Paignton Sands before taking a route through the high street and around Paignton Old Town. There are eight artists to meet all painting at Paignton sites with unique stories. Walk the trail, discover the history, and see Paignton in a new light. Day 2 - The Great Paignton Paint Out - Sunday 24th September - 10:30-16:00 Take Part in a Mass Paint Out on Paignton Green Join us all on Paignton Seafront as we invite you to “Paint Paignton” with us. Whether you’re a pro, an aspiring talent, or have never picked up a brush before, this day is open to everyone to get involved. Bring your favourite art supplies or pick some freebies up on the day from our art station, and whether you’re a painter, prefer charcoals, or sketch on your iPad, it doesn’t matter, so long as you come on down to help us gather the biggest group of artists Paignton Green has ever seen. Get tips and advice, watch live demos throughout the day, but most importantly, create! Whether you're spending the whole day or just passing through there'll be plenty to discover all day. Four of our commissioned artists will be producing new works in situ with talks and demos on every hour. Visiting artists will be sharing tips and on hand to help, and you can drop of your completed works to our pop-up gallery where they'll be in with a chance of being exhibited in showcases following the event. Plus we'll have experts on Paignton's history on hand to tell you about the incredible heritage of the town. Tell Us You're Coming! If you're planning to join us on either of the days, you can use the links below to RSVP to our Facebook events and stay up to date on event timings and activity. DAY 1 RSVP DAY 2 RSVP Are you a practicing artist planning to attend The Great Paignton Paint Out? We'd love to hear from you and share other opportunities for how to get involved on the day. You can fill in a quick form at the link below to let us know you'll be taking part and we'll be in touch. Heritage Walk & Contemporary Plein Air Masterclass with Jayne Farleigh - Saturday 23rd - 10:30-15:30 Come and discover our Artist Heritage Trail and enjoy a contemporary take on plein air technique with professional artist Jayne Farleigh. Starting with a heritage walk around Paignton guaranteed to intrigue both seasoned locals and inquisitive visitors, and concluding with an afternoon masterclass suitable for artists of any background, we have just 10 places available at this full day event arts heritage event. Places are £58.00 inclusive of lunch. Heritage Walk Starting at the seafront and taking in locations across the town centre, historic Winners Street and the Paignton Old Town, this approximately one hour walk will be guided by local history experts and supported by our workshop leader, who will provide context on applying plein air techniques to capturing a variety of locations. Masterclass “I am really looking forward to running this en plein air workshop in this beautiful park the location has so much to offer! With its geometrical pathways, mature trees and gloriously colourful planting. The park is also encircled by historic iconic buildings such as the Palace Theatre which dates from 1890. There is level access and plenty of benches to sit and sketch from and refreshments nearby. Bring your art materials and please do get involved!” This workshop is suitable for all ages and abilities. I am a friendly and experienced tutor, and my aim is to make you feel as comfortable as possible during the day. Paint Paignton This Summer! Be part of a Summer of Plein Air with Artizan Collective and The Great Paignton Paint Out! At the end of September, The Great Paignton Paint Out will invite artists of all backgrounds and abilities to get out and get creative with a mass painting event that will take over Paignton seafront. But the event starts right now, as we invite you all to get outside and "Paint Paignton this Summer" and help us find exciting locations, scenes and sights around the town. We're inviting you all to visit Paignton and do some of your own plein air practice to be a part of this exciting event. Works submitted as part of "Paint Paignton this Summer" will all be included in the "The Great Paignton Paint Out" online archive, and will have the chance to be included in a legacy exhibition at Torre Abbey, a showcase of all the Paignton works at Artizan Gallery, and will have the chance to be selected for the English Riviera Winter Open Exhibition 2023. How to Take Part Let us know if you're thinking about taking part this Summer by filling in this quick form. Once you've done this, we'll send you updates about the event, tips on great locations to visit, and heritage stories about the sites other artists are out there capturing. Get outside and get painting! Make sure your location is in Paignton and make a note of where you are and what you're painting; if you can, grab the exact What3Words location for where you set up your easel. Snap a photo of yourself painting on location. Jump in the picture yourself if you want to, or otherwise send us a photo of your setup and your view to accompany your completed work. Submit your details to us at collective@artizangallery.co.uk We need: Your name; Where you were painting and your What3Words location if you have it; The title of your work; Images of you on location; Images of your completed work. And that's it! By submitting your work you're agreeing that you're happy for us to share it as part of the event and that you're ok with us contacting you about The Great Paignton Paint Out and Paint Paignton This Summer. Thinking about Painting Paignton this Summer? Let us know and we'll keep in touch by sharing great locations, their heritage and what other people are painting. You can fill in a quick form at the link below to let us know you'll be taking part and we'll be in touch. Our Artists We'll be announcing details of our participating artists soon! Event Maps Event maps coming soon! Wide Open The event is part of Wide Open, an exciting cultural and creative programme in central Paignton between 23 September – 22 October co-ordinated by local producing house Filament and delivered by cultural and community partners. More information is available on the Torbay Culture news pages and Paignton Picture House website, and you can also read the event announcement here. Torbay's Cultural Development Fund - Paignton Picture House Torbay’s Cultural Development - Paignton Picture House is a collaboration between Torbay Council, Paignton Picture House Trust, South Devon College, Torbay Culture and the Agatha Christie Festival Limited. It is supported by the Cultural Development Fund, a Department for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport (DCMS) fund, administered by Arts Council England. The aims of the programme are to improve the attractiveness of places through culture, and to support cultural leadership, local skills and the economy. "Torbay Culture Board is pleased to be working with partners from across Torbay to put Paignton's Cultural Development Fund project at the heart of redevelopment in the town. A cultural programme launching this summer with a farewell to the Picture House before works commence, will, over the next two years, celebrate Paignton and its communities, showcasing the contribution of culture to health, wellbeing, and prosperity for our towns." Jacob Brandon, Chair of Torbay Culture Partners We're working with a range of partners to make the event a success and look forward to sharing more with you about them here. Volunteer The two days of activity (September 23rd/24th)will require volunteers for a number of roles including event stewarding and artist support and would be ideally suited to painters, creatives or anyone with an interest in visual arts. Volunteers will work a half day shift (approximately 4 hours) and will receive training, expenses to cover access and sustenance and we will be happy to provide references also where this is helpful. To find out more about the event, visit www.artizangallery.co.uk/paigntonpaintout Interested parties should email a CV or short statement of their background and experience to jacobbrandon@artizangallery.co.uk Get in Touch If you have any queries about the event, you can reach out to us at collective@artizangallery.co.uk For press enquiries, please email jacobbrandon@artizangallery.co.uk For sponsorship and partner enquiries, please email juliebrandon@artizangallery.co.uk

In reflecting on their collections, the National Gallery recognises, that in a vast 2,300 paintings spanning the 13th to early 20th century, only 21 are by women. It’s a shocking figure, and one that they use to tell a story around the “gender gap in art history”, the representation of women, and the barriers and obstacles that women faced when engaging with the art world. Today, whilst gender in itself is not a direct barrier to participation, pervasive societal inequalities that predominantly disadvantage women, continue to mean that the conversation around art and gender is of critical importance, both in relation to how women access the art world, and the role that the art they create has on the conversation. This October, Artizan Gallery will host its first ever “Women’s Open Exhibition”. Whilst historically we have had all-female line-ups frequently at the gallery, this will be the first time we have curated an exhibition with this intention at the outset, and beyond this, it will be a chance to have conversations about the history of women in art and the barriers and inequalities still present today. Key Dates Deadline for Entries: 21st September Confirmations: 22nd September Work Delivery: 23rd – 29th September (bookable) Exhibition Dates: 4th – 28th October Exhibition Launch: 6th October 18:00-20:00 Collection Window: 28th October - 2nd November (bookable, link to be circulated in final week of exhibition) Opening Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 11:00-17:00 Important Links Payments: https://www.art-hub.co.uk/product-page/awopayment Terms and Conditions: https://www.art-hub.co.uk/exhibitorsterms PDF Submission Form: https://1drv.ms/b/s!AogSEXwZ5CTjoMAvUd5AtU6Nrk6xlA?e=PbHihk Curatorspace Submission Form: https://www.curatorspace.com/opportunities/detail/artizan-womens-exhibition/7565

Torre Abbey, the English Riviera Geopark's most significant heritage building, transports visitors back in time to the 12th century. Established in 1196 by the Premonstratensian order, this remarkable structure has witnessed and survived epic moments of history, evolving from a thriving monastery to a grand Georgian mansion. With its 122 rooms, 20 levels, and 265 steps, Torre Abbey offers a fascinating experience for modern-day pilgrims seeking to explore eight centuries of history. Since its foundation, Torre Abbey has upheld a tradition of hospitality that has endured for over 800 years. The six Canons of the Premonstratensian order, who arrived in Torquay in 1196 thanks to Lord William Brewer's generous gift of land, initiated this tradition. Throughout the centuries, it was continued by Abbots, Canons, and later, the Cary family, who purchased the property after the Dissolution of the Monasteries. Today, the local authority proudly grant public access to the largest surviving medieval monastery in Devon and Cornwall, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its history. Despite the austere life of the 12th-century Canons, supported by their servants and staff, Torre Abbey thrived and became the wealthiest Premonstratensian Abbey in England by the 15th century. This prosperity enabled the construction of Torquay's first harbour and the establishment of a neighbouring town, which came to be known as "Newton Abbot." In addition to their religious duties, the Abbey also offered free board and lodging to travellers, ensuring that their doors were always open to those in need. Following the Dissolution of the Monasteries by Henry VIII, the Cary family acquired Torre Abbey in 1662 and transformed it into a private residence. Over the course of nearly 300 years, the family added a grand Georgian mansion to the medieval structure. Renowned for their hospitality, the Carys earned the Abbey the local moniker of "The George Hotel," reflecting their commitment to welcoming guests. Within the grounds of Torre Abbey lies The Spanish Barn, a medieval Tithe Barn originally used to store taxes paid to the Abbey in the form of agricultural produce. Its historical significance is firmly established during the time of the Spanish Armada. In 1588, Sir Francis Drake captured the Spanish flagship, and among the prisoners held in The Spanish Barn was the fiancée of a Spanish lieutenant. The tragic tale of "The Spanish Lady" and her eternal search for her lost love adds an air of mystery to this historic site, which now hosts exhibitions, events and weddings. In 1930, Torre Abbey was purchased by the local authority, transforming it into an art gallery and museum. With its extensive collection of paintings, antiques, and the largest surviving collection of Victorian sculptor Frederick Thrupp's works, Torre Abbey became an essential cultural and artistic hub. A Home for Arts and Artists The cultural significance of Torre Abbey perhaps makes it an obvious attraction for a plein air painter such as Martin Dutton. Perhaps, as a regular exhibitor in the Spanish Barn, it was this proximity that drew him to consider the gatehouse as a subject for two works in his Torquay series, with its two prominent arches granting access to the front of the Abbey and picturesque views across its lawns to the sea. You can discover Martin's work at Artizan Collective Gallery until June 25th. For more information, visit www.art-hub.co.uk/ex/md23 #MartinDutton #DevonArt #DevonArtist #AbstractArt #CelebrationOfTorquay #TorreAbbey #md23

A fun musical is coming to the Little Theatre this summer, presented by Toads Theatre Company. Director, Chris Matanlé gives us a superb vision of this uplifting musical comedy. “Nunsense is a hilarious spoof about the misadventures of five nuns trying to manage a fundraiser. Sadly, the rest of the sisterhood died from botulism after eating vichyssoise prepared by Sister Julia Child of God. Thus, the remaining nuns, ballet-loving Sister Leo, streetwise Sister Robert Anne, befuddled Sister Mary Amnesia, the Mother Superior Regina, and mistress of the novices, Sister Mary Hubert are trying to stage a talent show in order to raise the money to bury their dearly departed with hilarious results. The Nunsense concept originated as a line of greeting cards featuring a nun offering tart quips with a clerical slant. The cards caught on so quickly that writer Dan Goggin decided to expand the concept into a cabaret show called The Nunsense Story, which opened for a four-day run at Manhattan's Duplex and remained for 38 weeks, encouraging its creator to expand it into a full-length theatre production. Our cast have had a wonderful few weeks bringing these crazy characters and bonkers story to life and we can’t wait to put it in front of an audience!” So, come along and join in the fun, laugh at the hilarity that is about to ensue as the nuns from Hoboken raise these all-important funds… Important Note: Nunsense is not included in TOADS season ticket. Tickets are £17 No concessions. Nunsense runs from Monday 5th to Saturday 10th June at The Little Theatre at 7:30pm each night with a matinee on Saturday 10th only at 2:30pm. Book your seats now. You won’t be disappointed! Directed by Chris Matanlé TOADS Box Office 01803 299330 (Open Tues-Fri/10am-12noon). Book Online www.toadstheatre.co.uk

TOADS @The Little Theatre, the creators of exceptional Torbay entertainment and one of South Devon’s treasures, have again pulled out all the stops to bring to you a cavalcade of new and inspirational performances throughout 2023/2024. First in the line-up is Dad’s Army: It’s 1941 and the sound of marching feet is echoing around the theatre. Three episodes of the perennial TV favourite Dad’s Army are rehearsed and ready to have you laughing in your seats.The episodes have been adapted for the stage by the original writers, David Croft and Jimmy Perry, and include all of the well-loved characters. The Director, Julie Hancocks, says ‘We have 22 actors who have been working hard on this production for a while, and we have had so many laughs during rehearsal. We are now ready to share our fun with the audience. The actors have tried their utmost to capture the essence of the characters they are portraying. We also have one or two surprises up our sleeves to transport the audience back to 1941.’ ‘Put that light out!’ ‘Were doomed. Doomed!’ ‘Dad’s Army’ is written by Jimmy Perry& David Croft. Directed by Julie Hancocks. Further information for all 2023/24 shows in the forthcoming season can be found on the TOADS website: www.toadstheatre.co.uk Box Office 01803 299 330 email: boxoffice@toadslittletheatre.co.uk Dad’s Army. A Comedy. Mon 7th August to Sat 19th August Also included in the 2023/2024 line-up are: Genesis Visible Touch: The ‘Shapes’ Album @ 40 Tour – Sunday October 1st 2023 Early booking is advisable. #TOADS #English_Riviera Some of the Platoon guarding the War Memorial at the Little Theatre. L-R Private Walker (Gary Hobbs); Lance Corporal Jones (Clive Nyquist); Private Pike (Charlie Wilkins); Sergeant Wilson (Nick Hewlitt) and Captain Mainwaring (Chris Mitchell).

In the midst of our fast-paced modern lives, where stress and disconnection can be prevalent, finding solace and connection with nature has become an essential pursuit. Research has shown that immersing ourselves in natural environments can profoundly impact our health and overall well-being, both physically and mentally. Embarking on an exploration of these benefits, we delve into the art of Danielle Neill—an artist who has embraced the essence of nature's healing influence. The biophilia hypothesis posits that humans possess an innate affinity for nature—a connection that fundamentally shapes our well-being. Extensive research has established two prominent theories—the Attention Restoration Theory (ART) and the Stress Reduction Theory (SRT)—that illuminate the positive impact of nature on our health. ART suggests that exposure to natural environments restores our attentional capacity, effectively counteracting the mental fatigue imposed by our modern lifestyles. Complementing this, SRT elucidates how nature activates our parasympathetic nervous system, fostering relaxation and reducing stress. Passionate about the natural world, Danielle Neill has been on a personal journey to heal and recover from Long Covid that embraced this healing potential in nature. During this transformative period she took solace and inspiration from the world around her, and found a renewed appreciation for it's resplendence, immersing herself in idyllic countryside and captivating coastal paths, to embark upon a creative process, translating her profound encounters with the environment into vibrant artworks. Through her adept use of brilliant hues and expressive brushwork, Danielle's paintings effortlessly capture the dynamic energy and essence of landscapes, transporting viewers to realms where the boundaries between art and nature dissolve. Embracing the versatile medium of acrylic paint, Danielle employs an array of tools, including brushes, sponges, and her hands, to create evocative compositions. Acrylic's vibrant pigments enable her to craft dynamic and fast-drying artworks, mirroring the vitality and movement inherent in nature. By focusing on the layering of colours rather than intricate details, Danielle infuses her paintings with a vivid and impressionistic quality, inviting viewers to embark on their own imaginative journey. Each brushstroke serves as a conduit, conveying the awe-inspiring energy of nature and compelling onlookers to explore the intricacies of the natural world. Extensive studies have unravelled the profound connection between exposure to nature and positive mental health benefits. Time spent in natural environments has demonstrated a remarkable capacity to reduce stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms, with studies having evidenced decreases in cortisol levels—a biomarker of stress—after mere exposure to natural surroundings. Additionally, nature immersion has been associated with improvements in attention, executive function, and cognitive performance and these transformative benefits can significantly impact mental well-being, bestowing a sense of calm, clarity, and overall psychological resilience upon those who embrace the healing power of nature. Danielle Neill's art, infused with the essence of nature's tranquillity, serves as a poignant reminder of these holistic benefits, and whilst a stroll through her exhibition might not stimulate the same response as the landscapes themselves, we're certain they'll have a positive impact on anyone's mood. Danielle’s exhibition “Reconnecting with Nature” stands as a testament to the transformative power of nature, offering viewers a captivating and immersive experience that ignites a deep connection with the environment. By masterfully capturing the essence of nature's influence, Neill's paintings resonate with audiences, inviting them to reflect on the multifaceted benefits of immersing oneself in natural surroundings. You can discover Danielle's work at Artizan Gallery until July 28th. For more information, visit www.art-hub.co.uk/ex/dn23 #DanielleNeill #DevonArt #DevonArtist #LandscapeArt #PleinAir #dn23

The mesmerizing beauty of the natural world has long been a muse for artists, inspiring them to capture its essence in their preferred medium and apply their interpretation and experience of the landscape before them. One such artist who celebrates this enchantment is Bea Brookes, a talented South-West artist whose work is showcased as part of Artizan Gallery's "A World in Landscapes" exhibition. As we delve into the wider practice of plein air painting, we uncover the art form's allure and how it intertwines with Bea's own creations. Plein air painting, derives from the French term meaning "open air," and is an artistic approach that involves creating artwork directly in the outdoor environment, immersing oneself in an immediate experience of nature. It allows artists to engage with their surroundings, capturing the immediacy of changing light, colours, and movement that breathe life into the landscape. As a method, plein air painting dates back to the mid-19th century when artists such as Claude Monet and Pierre-Auguste Renoir ventured outdoors to portray the world as they saw it, with authenticity and immediacy. Bea Brookes, a lifelong artist, has a profound connection with the natural world. Living in Devon, perched atop a hill, she is surrounded by breathtaking vistas that span across a panoramic landscape. Her recent works, which are showcased in the exhibition, are a testament to her deep appreciation for her surroundings. Bea's artistic process begins with careful observation, multiple visits to a location, and the creation of sketches and capturing of photographs. These initial steps serve as a foundation for her subsequent paintings, allowing her to conceptualize the composition, perspective, and colour palette before translating her thoughts onto canvas. "I aim for a simple composition from what originally can be a complex vista with many focal points," Bea explains. "So, I'll spend a long time observing, re-visiting a place, just watching and looking. This instinctive and underestimated pastime is a real pleasure for me." One of the defining aspects of plein air painting is the ability to capture the essence and atmosphere of a place. Bea's artwork embodies this characteristic. While her paintings may seem organic and spontaneous, they are, in fact, a deeply personal interpretation of a location, often influenced by multiple photos or on-site sketches. Through her brushstrokes, she aims to evoke the feeling of a place, with rich tones, vibrant colours, and a sense of movement or stillness when required. Bea's love for the medium of oil painting shines through her work, as she embraces the malleability of the medium. Oils allow her to manipulate form and texture, creating a dynamic interplay between chalky subtlety and luscious richness. Each painting presents a new opportunity for exploration and self-expression, as Bea avoids being confined to a singular approach or style. Her optimism about the outcome and a preference for a loose artistic style result in captivating and evocative pieces. As we enjoy Bea Brookes' exhibition at Artizan Gallery, we are reminded of the profound connection between plein air painting and our appreciation of the natural world. Through her artwork, Bea invites us to immerse ourselves in the captivating landscapes she encounters, encouraging us to pause, observe, and find solace in the beauty that surrounds us. You can discover Bea's work at Artizan Gallery until July 28th. For more information, visit www.art-hub.co.uk/ex/bb23 #BeaBrookes #DevonArt #DevonArtist #LandscapeArt #PleinAir #bb23

English Riviera Summer Open 2023 As we continue to try and secure a future for our work in Torbay, we're delighted, however belatedly, to announce the English Riviera Summer Open 2023. If you've exhibited in our open exhibitions before you know the drill, but for newcomers our annual, seasonal opens are the biggest, and most ambitious visual arts showcases in South Devon, as we turn the walls of our highstreet gallery into a tapestry of original art from creatives all over the country. The exhibition is selective but open to all with our values for the showcase being: Diversity and Variety - we take a range of traditional and contemporary practice, selecting works that result in a showcase rich in media, subject and style; Originality and Innovation - this isn't an exhibition that just "plays it safe", we love traditionally work, but equally we want to share work with audiences that they may not find anywhere else; Quality and Talent - we select the best to create a showcase for our audience where they can guarantee they'll be taking away collectible, original work that can't be found anywhere else. This year, your support in taking part in the exhibition will be appreciated more than ever as we've had a rollercoaster over the last 9 months whilst we've fought to keep this showcase as part of the local arts calendar. There is one big change this year. For the first time your fee will only be payable if you are successful in having work selected for the exhibition. We'll be taking fees at the point of submission, but if we don't accept your work on this occasion we'll refund your fee in full. UPDATE: Based on interest from several artists, we have reinstated single entry submissions. Single entry submissions are charged at £10 but unfortunately are NOT refundable. Deadline for Entries: Thursday 29th June, Midday As always we can't wait to see your submissions and look forward to welcoming you to the English Riviera Summer Open 2023! Opportunities This is a selective exhibition, your fee is paid on submission but will be refunded if you don't have work accepted Up to 8 works can be submitted Works will have the opportunity to either be: ○ Selected (these will be guaranteed to hang) or ○ reserved (these will be requested for delivery and stored on the shop floor for audiences to view; they may also be hung if space permits at our discretion) All successful artists will be entitled to supply, in addition to their accepted work: ○ Up to three mounted and wrapped works for browsers or ○ Up to three additional small for sale products such as catalogues or artbooks, and ○ Greetings cards; either 5 copies of 3 designs or up to 15 original greetings cards All selected works will be showcased for a period of 6 weeks as part of Smmer on the English Riviera Exposure in the English Riviera’s premier selective exhibition gallery Opportunity for commercial sales of work Features in exhibition print and digital promotional material delivered via the channels of the exhibition curators and partner organisations Long-term exposure on the exhibition digital hub including micro-profile and the opportunity for additional features Selected artists may be recommended to our partner services to have their work featured in additional online listings Exhibition Awards including the English Riviera Award (selected by a guest judge) and the Audience Favourite Award. Work Sizes, Types and Dimensions: Works are classified as either: ○ 2D Wall Display ○ 3D Surface Display (not exceeding a height of 60cm) ○ 3D Floor Display Works of any medium are accepted 2D Works: ○ A single 2D entry will not exceed 60cm in any direction inclusive of framing ○ 2D entries exceeding 60cm but not exceeding 1.5m in any direction can be submitted as two entries 3D Works: ○ A single 3D entry will not exceed 80cm in any dimension ○ 3D entries exceeding 80cm but not exceeding 1.5m in any direction can be submitted as two entries ○ Small 3D works may be submitted as a series and be counted as one entry but you must contact the gallery before making your submission to confirm if your work qualifies for this ○ Jewellery and small items should be provided with secure display equipment and artists should consult with the gallery to ensure they are making sufficient provisions prior to submission. ○ A 3D work that is wall display should be submitted as a 2D Work ○ Where specific display equipment is required this must be specified ○ You may be requested to supply plinths or make additional provisions for display of your work where these are non-standard Dates Deadline for Entries: Thursday 29th June, Midday Confirmation of Entries: Friday 30th June, Midnight Start Date: Saturday 15th July, 11am End Date: Sunday 27th August, 4pm Launch Date: Friday 14th July, 18:00-20:00 Delivery Week: Saturday 1st July, 11am - Thursday 6th July, 5pm (bookable on acceptance) Hang Week: Friday 7th July - Thursday 13th July (artists are not required but should be prepared to receive work queries during this period) Opening Hours: It may be necessary for our opening hours to adjust between now and the exhibition, but we intend to open weekends and 3 week days (5 days/week) 11:00-16:00 Fees Exhibition Fees: £30 (payable at the point of submission, refunded if not selected) Donation: £5 (optional, non-refundable) UPDATE: Based on interest from several artists, we have reinstated single entry submissions. Single entry submissions are charged at £10 but unfortunately are NOT refundable. Commission Fees: 35% Payments can be made at the below link once you have made your submission: https://www.art-hub.co.uk/product-page/ersopayment All fees go towards Artizan Collective's continuing work to deliver opportunities for artists in the South West. About Artizan Collective CIC Artizan Collective CIC is a not for profit Social Enterprise dedicated to the advancement of arts and culture in Torbay, supporting wider engagement and greater accessibility to arts for our communities, through the provision of opportunities, resources, spaces and networks for creatives of all practices in a sustainable and resilient manner. Currently hosted at Fleet Walk in the Artizan Collective Gallery, the Collective is providing a vibrant creative hub delivering opportunities for artists and audiences living and working in the Bay, as well as contributing to the English Riviera's cultural tourism offer. The venue currently runs a year-round visual arts programme which supports artists of all disciplines and experiences, including students and emerging artists, by creating affordable exhibition opportunities, awards and bursaries. In addition, a programme of community workshops, artist studios, and production spaces are in development in partnership with other independent creatives and local cultural organisations. Through this activity we aim to improve the perception of Torbay's cultural offer, showcasing and connecting the creative stakeholders contributing to the sector and signposting audiences from this prominent location, to the areas hidden gems. The organisation currently consists of two directors and a small group of key stakeholders and partners who support and deliver work, as well as an invested community of artists and creatives. Artizan Gallery supports the work of Artizan Collective CIC through the sharing of resources and promotional activities. Main Contact: Julie Brandon Contact Email: juliebrandon@artizangallery.co.uk Contact Phone Number: 07522 509642 Venue Address Artizan Collective Gallery Unit 5 Fleet Walk 74 Fleet Street Torquay TQ2 5EB Important Links Exhibition Page: (coming soon) External Link to Submission Form: https://forms.gle/4U63cP1LjZpcG5sA7 PDF Submission Form: Download Curatorpace Submission Form: (available soon) Exhibition Fee Payment Link: https://www.art-hub.co.uk/product-page/ersopayment Terms and Conditions: www.art-hub.co.uk/exhibitorsterms FAQs UPDATE: Based on interest from several artists, we have reinstated single entry submissions. Single entry submissions are charged at £10 but unfortunately are NOT refundable. Do I need a google account to submit using the form on this page? You do not need a google account to submit using the form on this page. However, you may be offered the option to sign in with a google account during the process and this enables you to save your progress when completing the form. Where do I submit my images? Once you have completed your submission, you can email your images to imagesubmission@artizangallery.co.uk Why do you take fees for your opportunities? We try to make all of our opportunities as accessible as possible, but as an independent non-profit that receives no external funding, we unfortunately still find ourselves in the position that we do have to charge fees for participating with our open calls. This is something we keep under constant review, and we monitor other local, national and international opportunities with an aim to keep our rates below the average of the fees we track. How do I know you've received my submission? When you make your payment for your submission we check that we've received your form and images. If any elements are missing we'll be in touch to request them. Provided you have had a payment receipt to confirm you've paid your fee, if you don't hear from us to request additional information, your submission is complete. Where can I see a copy of my submission form? If you'd like a copy of your completed submission form, email us at info@artizangallery.co.uk Submission Form