Saturday 1 August 2015

Old Town Quarry & Artists' Studios, Weston-Super-Mare



A couple of weeks ago I found myself at the Old Town Quarry in Weston-Super-Mare, such a great find! A working quarry from the 19th Century, it ceased production in the 1950s and became a place to relax and enjoy nature. Sitting snugly beneath the Weston woods, this peaceful site is now a serene haven to lots of British wildlife including foxes, toads and butterflies aplenty. There are many historical features of the quarry to see, including a huge restored weigh bridge and little sheds housing original tools and information. In addition, the quarry is home to one of only 3 working blacksmiths in the country. Set high into the imposing quarry wall, its really a magical place and I wish I could have caught the blacksmith at work!


I was most excited to see that the quarry is also home to a host of local artists who rent studio space in this remarkable place. I was lucky enough to be shown around the studios by Aileen, which are not usually open to the public. Such fantastic workspaces, I can't imagine a more inspirational location in which to base a community of artists. There is a wide range of art produced, from ceramics to paintings to jewellery to garden furniture. There is a working kiln to fire ceramics, and well-used desks and workbenches all over, littered with interesting pieces of work, books, brushes and bit and bobs! As per usual, the slightly musty, solventy, inky, woody aroma that comes from a vibrant working studio had me feeling happy and at home!

If you aren't already convinced this place is worth a visit, there is also a lovely little tearoom selling homemade products, and housing various exhibitions. The intimate gift shop also holds some unique and interesting things, including some of the artists' work and information about the history of the quarry.

I recommend a trip here for a cup of coffee on a quiet morning, to take in the wonderful surroundings and have a ponder, look at the current exhibition and maybe catch a glimpse of the artists or the blacksmith at work. It's really magical.

More information on the quarry can be found at www.oldtownquarry.co.uk and information on the community artists here at http://qarts.co.uk/











2 comments:

  1. How wonderful!! I'll certainly fancy a visit here sometime in the future! xx

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  2. This is extremely cool. I really love this place. Its simple yet attractive. The presentation, woodwork and artwork there are so amazing. I really wanna visit this place..!

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