Monday 12th May - Saturday 24th May 2008

History of the event

In 2006 Kristina Avery started a new initiative in Cranbrook - one that has already been earmarked for imitation in other parts of the country. She

had the inspired idea of establishing a symbiotic relationship between local working artists and the shopkeepers of the town. By devoting some of

their window display space to an artists work, participating stores were able to turn the whole town into a delightful art exhibition.  Through

imaginative pairing of artists and shops, all are benefitting, raising the profiles of all involved.

In devising Art in Store our intention was to create a 'win win' situation for artists and shopkeepers, and our experience in 2006 confirmed our

expectations. Despite some unhelpful weather the town had a good number of extra visitors for the show while the regular shoppers were often

startled into considering the merits of paintings and artworks that they wouldn't necessarily have gone out of their way to view. There were some

wonderfully imaginative pairings: Charlotte Molesworth and Cranbrook DIY; Brian Hanson and Phillips Man Shop;  David Aspinal and Stoneydale

Art Supplies; Will Taylor and Spice.

The 2007 Art in Store in May was another great success with more shops and artists joining in and terrific publicity for the event in the press and on

radio. The plans for May 2008 are underway and if you would like to be involved in the scheme contact Kristina by email or Trisha Spencer,

Tourism Development Officer of Tunbridge Wells Borough Council by phone on 01580 714086 before 12th April 2008.