Faversham Hosts 20+ Local Artists
Creek Creative is spotlighting a "what3words" exhibition featuring 20+ local artists' fresh work in Faversham, running until March 8. The exhibition showcases the vitality of local creative scenes in smaller UK towns, demonstrating how grassroots art initiatives can energize communities. Faversham's growing reputation as an arts destination reflects the broader trend of creative activity spreading beyond major metropolitan centers.
The "what3words" exhibition, titled "///everybody.venues.cuddled," is named after the unique three-word address for Creek Creative's own front gate, a system that has assigned a 3-meter square to every location on Earth. This innovative concept has been used in other creative projects to link digital art with physical spaces, encouraging a new way for artists to engage with their surroundings. Creek Creative, the host of the exhibition, is a not-for-profit Community Interest Company (CIC) founded by Anne MacLaren and Simon Giles. Established in 2009, it transformed a late-Victorian brewery bottling plant into a hub for local artists, now providing 32 affordable studios and seven desk spaces for around 45 creative practitioners. The venue at No. 1 Abbey Street is more than just a gallery; it's a multi-faceted arts facility. It houses the award-winning Gallery Kitchen Café and a quirky Artisan Shop, making it a popular destination and meeting place that integrates the arts into the daily life of the community. The organization actively supports local talent by taking only a 30% commission on art sales, with the majority of the price going directly to the artists. Beyond exhibitions, Creek Creative offers a range of courses and workshops, including lino printing, weaving, and fused glass, further fostering creative skills within the Faversham community. Faversham's reputation as an arts hub is supported by a variety of institutions and events. The town is home to The Arts Society Faversham, which organizes lectures and events, and has a literary festival featuring well-known authors. Additionally, the town's market often features the "Best of Faversham" artisan market, showcasing local arts and crafts. The creative spirit in Faversham extends to performing arts, with venues like the Arden Theatre and events such as the Faversham Fringe festival. This diverse and active arts scene, from visual arts collectives like East Kent Edit to various craft workshops, illustrates a broad and deep-rooted creative culture in the town.
