A CELEBRATION of art in Abergavenny takes place for the first time this summer, with the launch of Abergavenny Arts Festival.

Taking place between the June 29th and July 1 the Festival will showcase the best local amateur and professional artists from Abergavenny’s vibrant arts scene, as well as featuring exciting talent from around the globe.

The town will host 150 events across 40 venues, including talks from Booker Prize winner, Ben Okri OBE, an exhibition by print maker and painter Rosemary Clunie as well as demonstrations by potter Walter Keeler and a performance of Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

Music will be provided by a diverse range of musicians including Sicknote Steve (a tribute to American Blues musician, Seasick Steve); The Gwent Bach Choir; Mediterranean music from Synergy; The Liverpool Signing Choir; Cwmbran Deaf Choir; and DJ sets across the weekend.

Other events will include celebrations of dance, theatre, film and comedy as well as a chance for visitors to try their hand at everything from singing to life drawing classes. There is also an opportunity to be part of the celebration’s opening and closing parades.

The weekend will culminate in a huge artist’s market in the Market Hall on Sunday 1 July, where visitors can purchase original artworks to take home and enjoy at affordable prices.

The event has been organised by a committee of local artists, educators and businesses in response to research undertaken for Abergavenny Town Council.

Committee Chairman, William P Duggan said, ‘I am most grateful for the tireless and talented work of everyone on the committee, the support of local businesses in making their premises available.

A full programme can be found at www.abergavennyartsfestival.com. Many events are free of charge and ticketed events start from as little as £5.