More on KentOnline
More on KentOnline
Go for a walk, have a talk and draw something. That's the latest event dreamed up by artist Nicole Mollett.
The two-hour stroll will explore hidden footpaths and alleyways of Sheerness and take in the seawall, a derelict water tower and the strange stone statues of Blue Town.
Participants will be given a series of drawing exercises inspired by architecture and the area's maritime industrial heritage as part of the Estuary Arts Festival which runs until June 13 and takes in the Thames Estuary from Southend and Sheppey to Thanet.
To accompany the walk, Nicole has designed the Sheerness Drawing Book for schools, families and young people which features pictures of buildings and landmarks and encourages would-be artists to add their own creations to blank spaces.
It is available throughout the summer from the Cottage of Curiosities Museum in Rose Street, Sheerness.
Although based in Bromley, Nicole, 42, is no stranger to Sheppey. She said: "My great uncle Clifford was one of a group of people who set up the Isle of Sheppey Catamaran Club after the Second World War.
"My father Peter was commodore of the club for more than 10 years during the 1980s and 90s so I spent much of my youth sailing and being creative on Sheppey and became very fond of this beautiful isle."
Her first exhibition in 2004 was called Insula Ovinium and retraced William Hogarth's "peregrination" to the Island in the late 18th century. With help of 14 artists she staged the exhibition across three venues at Queenborough Guildhall, the Rockhouse in Marine Parade and what is now the Sheppey Community Centre.
She was also behind the Kent Cultural Baton project where a converted 1950s stainless steel Airstream caravan travelled the county encouraging people to share stories of where they lived.
Her new walk, hosted by Christoph Bull, is limited to 15 people to remain covid-safe. Participants should wear masks and exercise social distancing. She said: "Everyone is welcome. No prior drawing experience is necessary. Materials including paper and pencils will be provided but people are free to bring their sketchpad if they want."
It is hosted by the independent not-for-profit art organisation Island Projects. To join the free Walk, Talk, Draw session meet outside the Cottage of Curiosities at 2pm this Friday, June 4. To book a ticket, visit https://tinyurl.com/walktalkdraw
