The Oxton Art Fair started in 2004 by a group of friends who were aware that there was a core of artists residing in the area and an influx of artists formerly of the area returning from overseas and newcomers attracted to the community atmosphere and picturesque village. All of the artists and crafts people live in Oxton. Each year we welcome guest artists from the surrounding area to join the Oxton Art Fair to enriched our annual event.
In terms of numerology, the number 15 is the number for; ‘harmony, innovation and family’. Oxton Art Fair can offer all three, as it returns to the Williamson Art Gallery on November 24th for its 15th year.
Harmony: This year, there are 19 professional and semiprofessional artists and friends who will come together to showcase their work across three gallery rooms.
Innovation: Members and annual guests will present a diverse mix of interesting and innovative art in the form of; photography, printmaking and painting. Plus, beautifully hand-crafted pieces including; ceramics, jewellery, woodcraft and textiles. Viewed as Wirral’s must-visit pre-Christmas event, it gives both gift buyers and browsers a chance to chat to the artists about their work and if they choose, purchase a truly individual piece for their friends, family or home.
Family: There will be children’s art activities on throughout the weekend and refreshments for sale in the fabulous Williamson Café to help make this a truly all-round family event.
This year, the fair will be opened by Angela Samata, Winston Churchill Fellow for research into Outsider Art and former coordinator of the John Moores Painting Prize. Angela said:
“I’m delighted to be asked to open Oxton Art Fair to the public. Having lived and worked in and around Oxton for many years, I’m constantly impressed by the creativity that finds its home here. I deeply believe that supporting living artists in their endeavours is one of the greatest things we can do and I see the Oxton Art Fair as an excellent opportunity to do just that.”
You will be able to meet them, talk to them, and purchase their work, at The Williamson Art Gallery and Museum – Slatey Road, Birkenhead – CH43 4UE on Saturday 25th November (10 am till 5pm) and Sunday 26th November (10am till 4pm).
``The relationship that has developed between the Williamson and Oxton Artists through this initiative has been mutually rewarding and very satisfying. The quality of work produced by local artists is undeniable and we are pleased to be a focus of activity throughout the year, but especially for this event. The Oxton Art Fair goes from strength to strength and it now represents the busiest weekend of the year at the gallery. I look forward to seeing the work that is presented as there are always surprises that make each new year an exciting opportunity.``
Colin Simpson, Principal Museum’s officer for The Williamson Art Gallery and Museum.