I visited an art gallery in Deal holding a special exhibition of famous photos from the National Portrait Gallery.
The work of Herb Schmitz – who photographed musical giants including the Beatles, the Rolling Stones, Jimi Hendrix and David Bowie as well as famous actors and politicians – has been on show at Linden Hall Studios in St George’s Road, curated by local artist, Marguerite Smith.
An exhibition called Sounds of the Sea is currently running at the gallery, featuring recent paintings by six artists including three who live and work in Deal, together with stunning glass arts of work.
Gallery manager Myles Corley and I discussed a Government-backed arts scheme, Own Art, that was making a big difference to selling local works of art.
The Linden Hall Studios is a real gem of an art gallery in Deal. The work on show was fascinating –especially works produced by local artists.
We have such a strong and vibrant community of artists in Deal. I heard about the special art purchase scheme supported by the Government, that provides zero interest loans to buy art work over a number of months. It is one of a number of initiatives to support culture and the arts, and I am keen that we do even more locally to support our thriving arts community.