The art of social distancing

AN art supplies store sent a piece of paper to 12 artists from different parts of the country – in order to create a socially distanced piece of artwork.

Ken Bromley Art Supplies, in Horwich, Bolton, enlisted the help of talented artists from each region of the UK to create the collaborative piece.

The finished piece is now being auctioned, with the money set to go to the Co-op Foundation, which helps fund community projects across the country.

Laureen Pattison, of the shop, said: “We have spoken to so many customers who have told us that art has really helped them get through lockdown. Whether they have just taken it up as a hobby, or come back to it after a long break now that they have more time.

“It has raised their spirits and given them a creative outlet allowing them to de-stress and take their minds off everything that is going on in the world.”

“We also know that many of our customers have felt very isolated during this time. Art classes and groups have been cancelled and people are feeling a lack of connection to one another. We loved the idea of a collaborative art piece made by artists from all over the country, who though never having met - are able to produce a work of art together.

“The theme ‘connections’ runs throughout the piece, with each artist choosing something that represents a connection they felt during lockdown and it was delightful to hear the story behind each contribution.”

The auction ends next Thursday.

To bid, visit the Ken Bromley Art Supplies website.