Original North Devon art set to attract huge interest
Following the success of last year’s art exhibition at St Mary’s Hall In Appledore, ArtMakers return again with a New Atlantic Wave selection of North Devon’s original artworks.
The event is taking place at the Appledore Book Festival (15 – 24 September). More than 25 artists from the North Devon and Torridge area will have their work displayed at the exhibition which is set to provide a ‘unique visual art experience.’
ArtMakers is a vibrant community of artists and art enthusiasts which aims to bring together creative minds from various disciplines across North Devon. It was founded by Phil Parker and Hilary Beecroft.
The team’s work has allowed ArtMakers to gain recognition for its commitment to supporting emerging artists and providing them with a platform for their artwork.
‘We are thrilled to be returning to the Appledore Book Festival and hope to attract even more people than our eleven hundred visitors of last year,’ says Phil.
‘This New Atlantic Wave exhibition of original artworks includes everything from seascape and landscapes to textile hangings, jewellery, and ceramic sculpture.’
‘We are excited about the growth of ArtMakers and the incredible talent that will be discovered and celebrated in this exhibition,’ adds Hilary.

Hilary at the New Atlantic Wave exhibition. Image: Dirty Martini Marketing.
Artmakers: hosting masterclasses
In addition to the New Atlantic Wave exhibition, Artmakers are hosting two masterclasses as part of the annual event. The first will take place on Thursday (21 September).
It is set to cover self-publishing and includes input from Blue Poppy Publishing, Point Croyde and Deborah Last who was the ‘Artist in Residence’ at the Appledore Book Festival 2022.
The second session scheduled for Friday (22 September) covers ‘The Wonderful World of Graphic Novels.’ It includes contributions from Dave McLean, the illustrator of ‘Tyger.’
John Hurford, a local artist working on his first graphic novel, will also be there alongside Karrie Fransman who recently published her second ‘Gender Swapped’ book.
Two creative workshops will also take place as part of the festival. An introduction to Pen and Ink illustration will take place with Rosie Burns on Friday (22 September).
Sharon Gale will host a Mixed Media Workshop on Saturday (23 September).