LOCKDOWN has not stopped local artists bringing colour to Kenilworth town centre.
An exhibition inspired by a photograph of Kenilworth Castle has been displayed in the former Poundland window in Warwick Road.
The photograph, taken by resident Louise Hanson, was recreated by 16 artists in different mediums after she posted the image on the town’s Facebook page.
The post generated conversation from artists and residents on the page, and exhibition organiser Nicola Bagga suggested they each attempt a to recreate the image in their own style.
She said: “I think the picture inspired so many people for a number of reasons. The first is that it is of Kenilworth Castle, a historic architectural site that for many is synonymous with the town and its identity. The second is that epitomises so much of what the town has experienced throughout 2020 and lockdown, and is a representation of the only thing many have been able to enjoy this year.”
An exhibition of local work had originally been planned to be held in the Old Bakery on the High Street, last month.
But, given the covid restrictions, Nicola approached Kenilworth Town Council with the idea to display the work from a shopfront instead, to ensure it would be accessible to as many people as possible.
Interior designer Nicola turned to drawing and painting during the first lockdown as a means of expressing her creativity and comfort.
She added: “Art can be a powerful source of inspiration and motivation. Throughout lockdown and sharing my artwork online I have come to know many other local artists, all who have been faced with similar circumstances to myself and art has been their comfort also.
“We have a community of very talented people who have really pulled together over the last year to lift everyone’s spirits, share their work and make friends.
“I thought an exhibition of our town’s most beloved architectural icon from a photo taken in the middle of the pandemic would be the perfect way to showcase the town’s talent and show the community how proud we are of everyone in it.”
