Local schoolchildren will be drawing on their imaginations at St Mary’s Parish Church, Barnard Castle, this weekend for an art exhibition themed on “Inspire…!”
The Northern Dales Richard III Group has invited schools together with the Barnard Castle and Teesdale Art Society and Teesdale u3a art group to display their work in the church as part of fundraising for the Windows for the King appeal.
Chairwoman of the Northern Dales group, Kim Harding spoke of the inspiration behind the ‘Inspire…’ exhibition: “In 2024 in partnership with St Mary’s we will be installing stunning etched glass windows to celebrate the 550th anniversary of King Richard III as Lord of Barnard Castle.
“He was inspired by his love of the town and his deep religious faith to develop St Mary’s as a collegiate church, and also by the practical example of his favourite saint, Ninian, and Saint Margaret of Scotland – two of the figures in the Windows for the King design – who cared for the sick and suffering, and for children, promoting schools and education.
“We wanted to spread the idea of celebrating those people or things that inspire us, to the schoolchildren in town.
“On Saturday at 2pm we will also be hosting stained glass artist Heike Sahner who will be giving an introduction to the techniques and materials used in the making and restoration of stained glass.”
The exhibition opens with a wine/soft drinks preview event on Friday, November 17, from 6.30pm to 8pm (open to all), with artwork on display throughout Saturday, November 18, from 10am to 4pm and Sunday, from 1pm to 4pm.
Some art will be available for purchase, with commission contributing to the fundraising. A grand raffle, tombola and refreshments will be provided by the Richard III Group.
