It's All About Art

Yesterday I spent a brilliant day at the Business Design Centre Islington filming for the Society for all Artists fabulous event.

The venue was perfect; a magnificent example of Victorian engineering, similar to Paddington or Euston train stations. Opened in 1986, and formerly the Royal Agricultural Hall, the building was rescued from demolition in 1981 by entrepreneur Sam Morris and was fully restored and re-opened as the UK’s first integrated trade, exhibition and conference complex.  

Within its light and airy wrought ironwork bubbled a creative tumult as painting demonstrations took place watched by wide eyed enthusiasts, with 'have a go' tables filling excitedly with artists of all ages and abilities. The atmosphere was electric and shopping bags quickly filled with all kinds of paint, paper, brushes, equipment, books and DVD's inspiring and enthusing keen artisans from all over the country. People really had come from far and wide to be part of this annual, and now exclusively in the BDC, art event.

I interviewed some amazingly talented artists as well as wonderfully enthusiastic and very lovely people. It was a joy to see the pride and suprise on the faces of people who'd never picked up a paint brush or pastel in their lives, beaming as they held up their own masterpiece of the day. Best of all, I came away freshly enthused and dying to try out some new painting techniques!

A real must for anyone who loves painting. Watch out for more details on the SAA website.