Borders Beauty
Art Fair takes on two prestigious venues to display original works
Head to Kelso for the fantastic celebration of art that is Borders Art Fair
THE Borders town of Kelso is bursting with stunning contemporary art this month. Around 70 artists, galleries and collectives from right across the
Scottish Borders are set to take part in the Borders Art Fair across March 13-15.
The traditional fair of beautiful arts and crafts has expanded over the years into an exciting programme of events available for those who want to learn from the experts, including talks supported by the Royal Society of Arts (RSA) from established professionals.
Workshops range from informal drop-in sessions and children’s face painting to in-depth guided lessons.
On Saturday, March 14, Gill Walton leads an interactive introduction to portrait painting – a guided three-hour class using water-based paints and working from a model.
The director of the Borders Art Fair, Frances Fergusson, is excited to be celebrating both local and national artists.
“It’s a wonderful opportunity to discover and be inspired by some incredibly talented artists from the Scottish Borders and beyond,” she said.
“The displays combine with our events programme to offer a unique celebration of contemporary art in one of the most beautiful locations.”
For this year’s event two prestigious new venues have been added into the mix – Marchmont House and Mellerstain House, both dating from the 18th century.
The Robert Adam-designed Mellerstain House is a
historical monument of Scotland with an exquisite collection of furniture, ornaments and paintings by Van Dyck, Gainsborough and Ramsay among others. A guided tour with a reception from Lord Haddington gives a fascinating glimpse into this beautiful building.
Marchmont House is a Grade A listed Palladian mansion built in 1750, and it too will be opening its doors. From original George II period plasterwork to 20th-century alterations by Arts and Crafts Movement pioneer Sir Robert Lorimer, the house is a masterpiece filled with art from throughout the centuries. Guided tours are available across the weekend of the fair.
The main hub of the Borders Art Fair, however, is the Borders Events Centre in Kelso, where local, national and international artists will display their wares of countless mediums. The fair is free to attend and with so many tempting pieces on show, you’re bound to end up with one or two originals as a souvenir.
Borders Art Fair takes place from March 13 – 15 across various venues near Kelso. For more information and for the artists involved go to www.bordersartfair.com