Calling all artists!
It's not too late for local artists to submit work to be judged for the prestigious Ilminster Open Exhibition 2023. The deadline for online entries is 6pm on Saturday, 6 May.
The exhibition, which aims to celebrate the work of established and emerging artists living and working in the South West, offers the opportunity for artists to win a total of £800 in cash prizes and to have their work displayed at Ilminster Arts Centre from 23 May to 16 June.
The competition and exhibition are sponsored by Branston and supported by Somerset Art Works. Find out more and how to enter here.
But before that, the Arts Centre will be hosting artwork from local schoolchildren in a special exhibition from 2 to 13 May to celebrate the coronation of HM King Charles III. Entry is free! And in the main gallery, we will be treated to the artistic talents of a well established group of calligraphers, West Country Scribes, exhibiting from 2 May to 19 May.
Meanwhile, Ilminster Arts Centre's busy programme of Friday night music concerts continues, alternating between classical music and jazz.
On 5 May, Concerts in the West present the Northern Chords Ensemble who will be playing a classical selection of Beethoven, Matthew Kaner and Mendelssohn.
On 12 May, the South West's favourite gypsy jazz and hot swing band comes to town. 'La Vie En Rose' has a well-earned reputation for its take on the ‘Hot Club’ style. Toe-tapping rhythms and soaring melodies combine in a virtuoso performance of gypsy favourites, jazz standards, soulful ballads and Latin swing, all played with the verve and joy that's at the heart of this music.
On 26 May, the music of two jazz legends combine for an unforgettable evening. 'An Oscar for Ella' features the sounds of Oscar Peterson and Ella Fitzgerald, brought to life by the talents of Joanna Eden, one of the UK's finest singers, and the ever-popular Craig Milverton on piano.
On 2 June, Concerts in the West are back again presenting ChamberMusicBox, who explore and perform the vast spectrum of chamber music.
All concerts start at 7.30pm. Doors open from 6.30pm with a cash bar. Tickets can now be purchased online via our website or by calling 01460 54973 (Tues-Sat). Discounted tickets are available for students and there's free entry for children aged 12 and under, accompanied by a paying adult.