Art exhibition revival put hundreds in frame
THE Macclesfield Open Art Exhibition is back in online form and with a total of 651 exhibits from 236 artists.
The event was first held in 2013 at the Silk Museum gallery when the venue closed in 2018 its annual run ended - until now.
Co-organiser Geoff Archer decided to revive the popular show as a fundraising virtual exhibition.
It opened on Friday, June 12, and runs until August 16 with proceeds going to East Cheshire Hospice.
Although entry is free, artists were asked to make a donation and were allowed to enter a maximum of three pieces.
Much of what is on display is for sale and many artists have agreed to give a further donation if any of their work is bought.
Geoff said: “The standard of the work is exceptionally high. Many of the artists are from in and around the town.
“Though some come from further afield and there were even entries from those living abroad, ex-Maxonians now living in Italy, Portugal and Australia. In some cases whole families of artists have submitted work.
“While much of the work will have been produced prior to the current crisis, some has clearly been made in recent weeks, at least judging by the titles, with references to isolation, social distancing and lockdown.”
Exhibits range in style from abstract to photorealism and include paintings, drawings, sculpture, ceramic, prints and photographs.
People can vote for their favourite piece and the artist who receives the most will be given the £100 Visitors’ Choice Award, sponsored by Macclesfield Town Council.
Geoff said: “The exhibition is open 24 hours a day and can be viewed from the comfort of your own home.
“It is also three times as big as the ‘real’ exhibitions were, and arguably three times as good. And they were very good.”
Visitors to the exhibition are also encouraged to make a donation and can see it at www.maccopen.org.uk.