A group of local artists who have been creating together for around 15 years are showcasing their work at Discover Downham as part of an Art Exhibition by Local Artists, taking place on 2 and 3 October.
The exhibition is free to visit, with refreshments available, and a selection of the artwork is also being offered for sale.
Behind the exhibition is a long-standing group of friends who meet once a week at the Con Club. Its members work in different artistic mediums, but their meetings have become about much more than creating art.
Artist Christine Brunn, speaking at the exhibition, said: “We’re just a group of friends. We work in different mediums. We help each other.”
This is the group’s second exhibition, following their first show two years ago. According to Christine, that exhibition went very well, and this year’s event has also received a positive response.
“I think we’ve sold about ten paintings overall,” she said.
Friends, family and members of the local community have been coming along to see the artists’ work.
The group also provides an important source of friendship and support for its members. One artist suffered a severe stroke several years ago and had to learn to use his left hand. He has continued creating art, supported by the other members of the group, including when communication can sometimes be difficult.
The story reflects the supportive atmosphere that has helped keep the artists together for around 15 years.
Their weekly meetings combine creativity with friendship, conversation and, importantly, coffee.
Christine joked that sometimes, once they have had their coffee, “we don’t do much work afterwards”.
“But that’s the point of the little group that we are,” she added.
The exhibition at Discover Downham shows how a shared interest in art can grow into something more — creating friendships, providing mutual support and bringing people together within the local community.
