Never-before-exhibited paper art inspired by North Herts is the subject of the last show put on by a Letchworth art gallery before it closes next weekend.
Arlesey-based Vanessa Stone’s show The Journey runs until June 4 at Dot to Dot in The Wynd, and features pieces inspired by buildings such as the Broadway Cinema in Eastcheap, and St Mary’s Church in Hitchin.
It is fitting that Vanessa is the last artist to exhibit at Dot to Dot, as she was also the first when Rebecca Leek of arts charity Rhapsode opened it in 2012.
Vanessa said: “It’s really special to have these on show locally – doubly special because it’s the last hurrah of Dot to Dot, and I have been involved since its beginning five years ago.
“It’s a bittersweet moment – so good to celebrate art and life and living here. We have both come a long way since then.”
The gallery-cum-café is closing next month as Rebecca and her family head off to Colchester to pursue organic fruit farming.
And Rebecca has posted a poignant farewell message on Dot to Dot’s website, writing that as a venue for arts festivals, coffee and bithday parties, the gallery had “made precious memories, fostered careers and taught skills”.
She said: “Letchworth is a strange and wonderful place with a rich tapestry of brilliant people. Dot to Dot has been a success because of that and I am proud to have provided some if the greenshoots of the developing arts offer that is putting the town rightfully on the map.
“I know so many people who have taken a piece of the creativity and put it to good use elsewhere. If we have just sparked a conversation that has led to the next thing for someone then I am happy.
“Don’t be a stranger – we are still very much alive and kicking and we are going with a bang, not a whimper!
“We would love to hear your memories. We know from all the visitors and collaborators we have what Dot to Dot means to people. Please send us a jotting.”
She concluded: “So long Letchworth, and thanks for all the paint.”
The gallery is open from 10am to 4pm, Thursday to Sunday.
To find out more or see more of Vanessa’s distinctive work, see vanessastoneartist.com. For more about Dot to Dot, see rhapsode.org.uk.
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