Four artists from Exmouth were among 20 in East Devon recently recognised for ‘enriching’ their local communities through art.
Artists from Exmouth, Colaton Raleigh, Farringdon and Otterton Parish Councils, were honoured at the East Devon District Council Chairman’s Garden Party, held at Knowle, in Sidmouth.
The 20 ‘arts champions’ were nominated by their town and parish councils and invited to the party to thank them for enriching their communities.
Councillor Andrew Moulding, Chairman of East Devon District Council, announced and introduced the arts champions and vice chairman, Cllr David Key, presented each of them with a certificate.
Cllr Moulding said: “It’s a real privilege to say a ‘thank you’ to our arts champions who, in so many ways, bring a passion for what they do to our communities.
“They work across a broad range of the arts, from painters to performers, and their artistic and cultural experiences enrich the lives of our residents.”
Carla Hiley, of Exmouth Town Council, was among those thanked, for supporting the growth of art and culture in the community.
She was especially recognised for her input into the Exmouth Festival, which provides a platform for hundreds of emerging artists.
Tony Farrington, of Otterton Parish Council, was celebrated for his professional work, both locally and on film sets, including Harry Potter.
While serving in the army he also drew up posters for the Royal Green Jackets at Peninsular Barracks, in Winchester.
Cynthia Boult was thanked for sharing her ‘passion’ for art in Colaton Raleigh, by running an art class in the village hall for may years.
She now designs art boards to promote local activities in the village and takes part in open studio events.
Janet Sawyer was recognised for bringing a wide range of artists to Farringdon, including ones from as far away as St Petersburg in Russia.
In 2004 she was instrumental in the creation of the Farringdon Society of Arts, which continues to hold wine tastings, painting workshops, Mediterranean gardening classes, music recitals and more.
More than 120 guests attended the event, including mayors and chairmen from towns and parishes around the district and civic dignitaries from other district councils within Devon.
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