Active and in Touch, the local charity which seeks to support those who are lonely and isolated in Frome and the surrounding villages has opened its stunning Art Exhibition, Portrayal of a Pandemic and it has been extremely well received.

Di Roberts, A&IT Co-ordinator shared her idea for the exhibition during a period of early lockdown and this has come to fruition. Showcasing pieces of art work, poetry, pottery, craft, photographs, mixed media and much more 'Portrayal of a Pandemic' arises from an outpouring of emotions, thoughts and feelings, highs and lows experienced over the last eighteen months by people in Somerset, Wiltshire and Dorset.

The illustrious panel of judges comprising Edgar Phillips, British designer and glass artist, Laura New, Wiltshire based artist and illustrator, Chris Bailey, Frome photographer, David Chandler, Frome based artist, art tutor, writer and broadcaster, Gladys Paulus, Frome based textile artist, Moira Andrew, Somerset poet and author and Tina Gainsford-Waller, manager of Winstone's Hunting Raven Books received submissions which were divided into three age groups – under 12s, under 18s and adults.

Included in those chosen for exhibition were twelve pieces selected for Active and In Touch's 2022 Calendar, which will shortly be on sale and available to pre-order now. Many of the pieces in the exhibition are also available for purchase with a donation going to Active and In Touch.

Due to the positive reception on Friday September 3rd the exhibition has been extended an extra week to September 19th at Frome's Black Swan Arts Centre. Many visitors commented that it is one of the best exhibitions seen in Frome.

A visit to 'Portrayal of a Pandemic' the amazing artistic response to Covid19 which will not only encourage you to reflect on the challenges of the past months but will also uplift and inspire you for what may lie ahead.