Arts 19 May 2021

A second chance to see the work of local artists at Callendar House

While many of us were home baking during lockdown, a group of fabulous local artists were busy creating and adapting their work for Winter 2020, Falkirk Community Trust’s first new Callendar House exhibition since the building closed in March 2020. The exhibition was only open for a matter of weeks before we were forced to close the House due to the second COVID-19 lockdown.

However, we are excited to announce that since Callendar House has reopened the exhibition is still on display in the Park Gallery and available to view free of charge until 20 June 2021. Pop along and visit the House and check out the work of the thirteen selected artists from across the local area and maybe even pick up a treat for yourself or a loved one as all pieces are for sale.

Gillian Smith, Exhibitions Officer said “All work is for sale with prices from as little as £45 and Winter 2020 is the perfect place to look for an original gift and to support local artists. We are absolutely delighted to be able to continue to support our local artists at this time. It’s fantastic to see their work in the gallery and we look forward to welcoming more visitors to the gallery over the next month, but please remember to book in advance.”

Karen Bones, an artist based in Carron, told us “Although, I am predominantly a portrait painter, I had to give up my home studio to my now ‘working from home husband’ since the pandemic began. I turned to black and white drawings, purely as it meant less art materials cluttering up the kitchen table, that I was now relegated to! As part of my daily walk, I started to photograph the surrounding areas with the mind to drawing them almost as a ‘COVID’` diary. Most places featured are local or a short drive away. Originally from Glasgow, I feel lucky to now live somewhere with all this beauty on my doorstep”

Kai Campbell, another of our local artists taking part in the Winter 2020 exhibition expressed the benefits of drawing to him in these difficult times “I have always found drawing to be of great mental benefit. In the beginning, art was much about playing and having fun. Now, drawing and painting have become meditative actions which without I could not live as fully. These mindful processes bring me closer to the ethereal beauty of nature. The pieces I have entered into Winter 2020 are inspired by my love for the surrounding area at Callendar Park - in particular, Forbes' Mausoleum."

To keep our staff and customers safe, we are asking visitors to prebook their visit to the house. Entry remains free and you can book online here or by calling 01324 506850