成人论坛

Rose Horspool is a former Head of Creative Studies at Bishop Burton College who's pursued a variety of artistic roles throughout her career. Teaching, working in advertising and being married to local artist, Robin, means she's never been far away from the artists' studio.

Rose comes originally from Somerset but studied art in Brighton before moving into teaching. She met her husband in Sussex, although he grew up and studied in art in East Yorkshire. Things have come full circle for Robin as they both came to live in the area 16 years ago and have never looked back.

Although having travelled extensively and even spent some years in France, Rose and Robin's company Visual Arts occupies a great deal of their time. They're involved in a variety of teaching projects for students of all ages and they also organise painting trips for like-minded people to improve their artistic skills.

Three years ago East Riding Artists came about when Rose, Hilary Angle, who's the Arts' Manager for Pocklington Arts' Centre,and some like minded colleagues discussed the lack of opportunities available to artists in this area. There seemed no means in place for them to exhibit their work or take advantage of funding opportunities. After an initial meeting of 30 artists meeting in Pocklington, the membership has increased to over 160 and is still rising.

One of the many activities the artists have been involved with recently is; 'Art in the Garden'. Thirty-eight artists, all from the group have spent time in gardens in this area taking part in the 'Yellow Book' initiative which is part of the National Garden's Scheme. This is the second year East Riding Artists have been involved and once again people have allowed artists to work in their gardens and allowed members of the pubic to see them at work.

Starting this weekend (18th October) until 26th October their artwork is going on display to members of the public in the long hall at Burton Agnes Hall. Rose is excited by the variety of work on display and hopes that as many people as possible will visit the exhibition.

Rose says she's not surprised the East Yorkshire Wolds have inspired artists such as David Hockney. Her picture selections relate to the East Riding Artists' stand at the 2008 Driffield show and illustrate the wealth and variety of talent that's on offer. Like the forthcoming exhibition it was an opportunity to see painting, drawing, sculpting, working in clay, textiles and other media.