LOCAL CHARITY Arts Richmond has spearheaded a collaboration with artists and independent retailers across the borough to provide a free art trail in Teddington launching this spring.

'Teddington Art Trail' will bring together an exciting selection of local artists and independent retailers to present an eclectic mix of artworks on a public trail throughout the month of April.

A total of 19 artists will be displaying their works in 23 stores across Teddington High-street, The Causeway and Broad Street.

Councillor John Coombs, Trustee for Arts Richmond said: "Arts Richmond is delighted to have created this trail, bringing artists and retailers together to show how culture can re-invigorate our highstreets, and how we can support local artists to connect with new audiences."

The trail will be available for free, however all works will also be available for sale to support both artists and independent shops.

Lockdown restrictions imposed due to the COVID-19 outbreak removed the opportunity for artists to carry out their creative work from studios, their typical working environment.

For artist Kitty Wass, who will be contributing her artwork as part of the upcoming trail, the UK lockdowns heavily impacted her creative output and ability to immerse herself in artistic projects.

The Teddington based painter said: "It was awful, it just really stopped me working, I couldn't get going.

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"Thankfully, when I went in to one of the shops taking part in the trail to offer up my work, and they expressed their enthusiasm in displaying my pieces, I immediately came home and started painting. I had a real incentive and rediscovered motivation."

The trail will provide local residents, workers and families with a chance to explore new stores, discover new artists, and create a spirited event for the community.

Abstract artist Laura Parker added: "The Teddington Art Trail highlights the authenticity of local artists and independent businesses. It allows people to realise that there are local shops run by individuals as supposed to multiples, that there are local artists producing work not known about in established galleries, but whose pieces are equally as striking.

"You are provided with the opportunity to purchase work in an exclusive and personalised manner."

The trail will be officially launched by Mayor of the borough, Councillor Geoff Acton, at the Landmark Art Centre on Friday 1st April.

To register for your free tickets to the launch, head to Eventbrite at www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/launch-for-the-teddington-art-tvrail-2022-tickets-263701748027