What is Art in Action ?

Art in Action  is a 4 day showcase of the best in visual arts. Having begun in 1977 with a few dozen high calibre artists and craftspeople willing to set up mini studios in marquees where they could work and demonstrate the creative process to a few thousand art lovers, the event has grown to become one of Britain’s premier art festivals. All areas of art and craft are represented. The international element keeps growing too, with artists and performers from the Far East and Turkey among the 300 or so professionals demonstrating to around 25,000 visitors. Over the years, in excess of 1/2 million people have attended.

Where is Art in Action ?
The venue is few miles south of Oxford – in the spreading grounds and gardens of historic Waterperry House. The venue is famous for its beauty and peace.
From London Take the M40 to Junction 8.
From Birmingham, the M40 to Junction 8A.
From Oxford, the A40.
Then follow the signs to Wheatley/Waterperry.
See map and transport details. Car parking is free, but sorry … no coaches.

How did Art in Action begin?
The aim was to present art and craft lovers with an opportunity to see excellent work actually being produced, in a spacious situation that allowed them to get in close, talk to and ask questions of the artists. Why is he using egg tempera? Why does she choose acrylic? How does Venetian glass differ from ordinary glass? Opportunities for ‘hands on’ experiences have developed down the years – for children as well as adults. Storytelling is another regular favourite with the young ones.

All the major arts and crafts are represented: painting, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, illustration, textiles, glass, conservation & restoration, lettering & calligraphy, metalwork & jewellery, woodwork and a section called New Generation where young artists and craftsmen demonstrate their skills. Within these sections many skills and disciplines are demonstrated and there is also a large, high quality craft market.

Among the international participants, Eastern Arts and Turkish Arts will be represented, where the traditional expertise and art of other countries will be shown, as well as music played around the grounds.

What effect does it have?
What effect does this have on visitors? They come away better informed and perhaps inspired to commission, or even create a work of artistic merit and beauty.

One visitor wrote following his visit: ‘It was one of the most inspiring and enjoyable days that I can remember. Everyone of those in attendance at Waterperry was absolutely charming . . . In these days of trouble and violence, it is refreshing to see the skill and dedication of the artists and craftsmen . . . Waterperry restores one’s faith in humanity.’

What news of Art in Action 2005?
Some 300 or so artists and demonstrators are expected. For most of them it is a unique opportunity to meet the public and join other artists and compare notes. Each year the organisers aim to introduce new demonstrators and artists. One of the aims of the organiser and his volunteer staff is that as far as possible the whole show should be an artistic performance; that the art should be of the highest possible quality and fineness; and that every visitor should see something that lifts his or her spirit. Then the show would be effective.

A few practical points?
Allow plenty of time. There is much to see. Art in Action is not a quick dip in and dip out event. There are beautiful gardens, lots of fresh food, pancakes, ice cream, Pimms, a wine bar and a celebratory champagne with strawberries bar.

 

Anything else ?

People speak of Art in Action as a memorable experience. Whole families enjoy it as a day out in lovely grounds with a huge variety of beautiful things to see, many famous and extraordinarily interesting people to meet, delicious food and drink, fine musicians and singers, and a large, high quality Craft Market.