It’s Sturminster Newton Art Week!

Introducing the Artists...

This month sees the return of Sturminster Newton Art week! Now in it’s third year, it runs from from 15th to 23rd July. More than 25 artists will be exhibiting their work across 30 venues in Sturminster Newton (and down the road at Spirehill), and both William Barnes School and Yewstock School have joined the Art Trail as new hosts this year. To plan your visits along the art trail, download a brochure here or you can pick one up from one of the local businesses, in The Exchange or next time you call into 1855.

The trail is made possible thanks to funding provided by SturAction (Sturminster Newton Community Benefit Society Ltd) –the charitable organisation which raises money for the benefit of Sturminster Newton. It does so through donations and sales at its shops – The Emporium, The Boutique and the Furniture Store – which also help the town by drawing added footfall to to increase the local economy. Less than a year ago SturAction established a new, exciting and unique shopping destination in the former NatWest bank. Built in 1855 – hence the name – the building is now host to almost 70 individual producers, makers and creators from the Blackmore Vale area. Several of those traders will be joining Sturminster Newton Art Week, displaying inside and in the windows of more than 30 venues around town. Mention, too, should be made of the Workhouse Chapel in Bath Road which permanently hosts a carefully curated collection of work by Dorset Artists. Also, The Exchange regularly displays works of local artists in the Bibbern Gallery and hosts inspiring theatre (and much more), especially through the Dorset Artsreach foundation.

Late night and Sunday shopping at 1855

1855 is now open on Sundays, 11am to 3pm. Perfect for a relaxed weekend – why not enjoy a browse followed by a delicious brunch in the town and then blow away the cobwebs with a stroll down the trailway?

On the last Friday of every month 1855 is open until 8pm. Pop in on your way home from work – or your way out for the evening – to buy some Rivers Corner cider, some Forager liqueur from Cerne Abbas or a bottle or two from Wolfe Wines. Plus you’ll be needing some Wyke Cheese and Olives et Al nibbles ... and seeing as you’re there, why not pause to browse and meet some of the traders?

Free parking on the first Saturday

There is always free parking – all day, both car parks – on the first Saturday of every month thanks to SturAction. By random chance *cough* it also happens to be the same day that the 200 or so car and bike ethusiasts have a friendly morning meet in the Rec.

BIB the bike

The community’s BIB the Bike has now been serviced and insured, courtesy once again of SturAction, and a team of volunteers are already out peddling. BIB is used for those in the community with mobility issues, allowing them the benefits and enjoyment of a cycle along the Trailway. If you’re interested to learn more, either to use it or to volunteer your cycling services, please do contact the Social Prescribing Team at the Blackmore Vale medical centre