Art in the Nave 2007
click on the link below to go to last years Art in the Nave website.
Gordon West, a notable artist who lived on the high street in the old town of Hemel Hempstead, was an integral part of the local community. He was the chair of the Friends of St Mary’s for many years and continued to be a strong support of its work.
More importantly he was the brain child of Art in the Nave – not only the friend’s biggest fundraiser but he built this exhibit into a key event in the art communities calendar. When Gordon first conceived the idea to run a local art exhibition within one of the oldest Norman churches he didn’t realised it would become a much loved annual event.
This year before Gordon passed away he left a wish that this successful event continue. We were then inundated with requests from artists and buyers alike and the event will be running from the 13th October to the 22nd October.
Art in the Nave has proved to be a big hit among enthusiasts. The exhibition was started in 2000 by Gordon West and Peter Grainger and saw over 40 visitors a day. Each year the number and quality of artists have improved and we have seen growing numbers of visitors, art lovers and buyers through the doors of St Mary’s church. By 2004 the exhibition saw over 300 visitors with £1,500 worth of art work sold. Over the last few years there have been on average over 350 art works on display raising an average of £3,000.
Art work on display this year is from over 50 well known local artists and ranges in price from £3 to £3,500 so there is something for everyone. The event provides an opportunity to select a broad range of work and could make someone special a splendid Christmas present.
At the same time this exhibition will be raising funds to keep the fabric of the ancient building in good order. Art in the Nave will be formally opened by the deputy mayor of Dacorum and this will then be followed by a private viewing on Friday 12th October.
Gordon West - Art in the Nave Coordinator 2000-6