Fresh ideas key to longevity

‘‘We wanted to create an opportunity to express our arts culture and create an opportunity for the talented artists we have in Cambridge.’’ David McKenzie

The tenure of the Cambridge Autumn Festival is about to reach its first decade.

Original festival trustees David McKenzie, Jocelyn Cooney, Alan Milton and Maria Campbell still remain the driving force behind its success.

Joined by Alana MacKay and Julie Epps over recent years, they have brought fresh enthusiasm and initiatives to the group.

McKenzie said every year the event went through an evolutionary process, adding new features while still retaining popular events from the past.

It was this formula which had ensured the festival’s success and longevity.

‘‘Our vision was to provide an arts festival for Cambridge,’’ he said.

‘‘We wanted to create an opportunity to express our arts culture and create an opportunity for the talented artists we have in Cambridge.’’

McKenzie and his committee opened the festival to include other genres of art, keeping the event fresh.

‘‘It’s what has kept the festival alive and this year’s packed programme is full of freshness,’’ McKenzie said.

A new highlight this year included 28 artists who will open their studios allowing firsthand public access to an artist at work.