Milnthorpe Art Exhibition

Milnthorpe Art Exhibition News.


The 22nd Milnthorpe Art Exhibition organised and run by volunteer members of Milnthorpe Men's Forum, assisted by many local artists, took place in St Thomas's Church 28-31 July 2011.

The event was, as always, strongly supported by the public and around 3000 people visited the Exhibition between Thursday 28th July and Sunday 31st 2011. Almost a thousand paintings were offered for exhibition by more than five hundred artists and space was found for five hundred and forty six to go on display.

In addition more than sixty ceramics, sculptures and other items were on show. All items on display were for sale and by Sunday evening more than 35% had been sold. The artists receive 80% of the sale price with the balance, after costs, going to MMF's selected charities and St Thomas's Church restoration fund.

The Exhibition is supported by many local businesses including its main sponsors, Cypher Digital, Gallery H - Arnside, London Art College, Harmony Business and Booths Stores. The Exhibition includes first class catering provided by local volunteers and this contributes not only financially, but also to the special ambience achieved within the church itself. This is a unique art show which now is one of the largest open art exhibitions in the North West. A wide range of paintings are on show, prices for the artwork range from under a hundred pounds to four figures and there is something for everyone.

All the organisation including the temporary conversion of St Thomas's Church into an Art Gallery, is undertaken by members of Milnthorpe Men's Forum supported by wives and partners. All are unpaid. This is a example of community commitment at its best and more than £120k has been raised for good causes since the first exhibition.

The 2011 exhibition enabled Men's Forum to donate a total of £6000, to this year's recipients: Sight Advice - South Lakes, Friends of the Lake District and the church restoration fund. A formal presentation of cheques by MMF Chairman John Whitehead took place in September ( see photographs) at the Cross Keys in Milnthorpe.

Arrangements are now well in hand for the 23rd Milnthorpe Art Exhibition to be held at St Thomas's Church 26th July - 29th July 2012.

The 2012 Art Exhibition will be held in St Thomas's Church 26-29th July. The last date for receipt of application forms for entering artwork is 14th July and Receiving Day for artwork is Wednesday 18th July ( not Thursday as previous years).