Art in Action
editArt in Action is one of the UK’s longest running festivals dedicated to fine art and master craftsmanship. Set in the grounds of Waterperry House in Oxfordshire, what distinguishes it from similar events is the artists and craftsmen set up their studios in one of many marquees, and visitors watch them at work. This allows the public to question and learn from the artists, as well as buying and commissioning art. The first Art in Action took place in 1977 with around 50 artists and over the last 32 years it has grown significantly. It is now an annual pilgrimage for anyone interested in the visual arts.
The Art in Action marquees host artists of the same disciplines including Painting, Sculpture, Drawing and Printmaking, Calligraphy and Illustration, Textiles, Woodwork, Metalwork and Jewellery, Ceramics and Glass. Over the years there have also been sections featuring arts from a wide variety of cultures and places, including Islamic Arts, Russian Arts, Abrahamic Arts, Indian Arts and Chinese Arts. New to 2009 is a Mexican Arts tent.
Visitors can also browse the Market where over 100 designer makers sell a wide range of quality goods including leatherwork, toys, ceramics, glass, jewellery, hats, body care and textiles.
Another unique feature that characterises Art in Action is the enormous range of practical classes that are offered to visitors. With an age range from 3 to 90 years, there really is something for everyone from pot throwing, jewellery making and wood carving to the more exotic medieval manuscript restoration and marquety and parquetry. Classes for adults are run by some of the most prestigious art colleges and institutions in the country including Camberwell and Chelsea Colleges of Art, the Princes School of Traditional Arts, the Glass Engravers Guild and the Art Academy. Once you completed your class, the Materials and Publications tent offers everything you need to go home and “get started”.
In addition there are music recitals, performing arts and storytelling for children, and visitors can tour the world famous Waterperry Gardens and take a guided tour of the exquisite frescoes on the walls of Waterperry House that were completed in 2006 - a 10-year project. There is a great range of refreshments from Belgian waffles to organic fresh food and fine wines.