Art in the Park celebrated talent in Leamington and Warwickshire

Art in the Park returned for its third year to Jephson Gardens on Saturday, 6 and Sunday, 7 August, where visitors immersed themselves in a weekend of art, creativity and fun featuring more than 160 local makers, musicians and performers.

The free festival saw exhibitions of everything from paintings to prints, ceramics, jewellery, textiles and sculpture.

Festival organiser Carole Sleight said the festival has grown each year as visitors tell friends and family about the unique atmosphere of the event.

“I think this year’s event was a real game changer and will help put Leamington on the map for its creative scene,” she said.

“The weather was incredible and we welcomed a record number of visitors with many coming from across the Midlands and beyond.

“I’m delighted so many people had a chance to see how diverse the creative community is in Leamington and Warwickshire and how many talented artists live in our area.

“There really was something for everyone at the event - from art and performances to great food and drink from local suppliers.

“We’re delighted to once again have had so much support and interest from Warwick County and District Council, BID Leamington, local businesses, our volunteers and of course the artists who have made it popular for another year.

“It was fantastic to also have Art in the Park founder Mo Finnesey present, who awarded Leamington Studio Artist Jane Callaghan with the prize for the best-dressed stall.

“Arts organisation Leamington Studio Artists – which is also Leamington’s largest art collector – is now based at East Lodge in Jephson Gardens, so the legacy of Art in the Park continues all year round.”

The theme behind this year’s festival was camouflage, inspired by Leamington Camouflage Group – a group of landscape painters and award-winning set designers who were employed during World War II to disguise bombing targets by creatively painting fake road markings onto rooftops.