All over Monmouthshire children are going back to a new school term next week. It's time to stock up on stationery, and not just for the kids. It’s also a new term for adult education classes too and a chance to take up a new hobby, or just to try something out at a day school oe workshop.
Going along to the craft demonstrations at the Court Cupboard Craft Gallery last weekend certainly inspired me. Give the gallery a call on 01873 852011 for details of their autumn workshops and weekly groups, which range from appliqué and jewellery making to watercolour painting and working with glass.
There are also some great opportunities at Arts Alive in Crickhowell at the moment. Right now there’s a chance to help with the decorations for Abergavenny’s upcoming Food Festival. It’s such fun to do, and you’ll feel so proud when you see the finished giant creations hanging in the Market Hall, and know that you had a hand in making them. If it's anything like last year, there should be over 35,000 people attending the Festival so you work will be seen by most of them.
In past years we’ve had sheep, chefs and chickens hanging down from the glass roof in the market hall; last year it was bumble bees, and this time it’s going to be huge kitchen utensils. Check out the website at www.artsalivewales.org.uk for all the details, and have a look at their list of impending art classes while you’re there.
Perhaps you’ve been doing grandparent duties over the summer holidays. Now you’ve got time for yourself again, why not treat yourself and come along to a Tea Concert next Thursday afternoon (8th September).
There'll be songs and readings, a delicious tea from our lovely local Sugar Loaf Catering Company, and a great crowd of people too. I’ll be singing on the day, and I’d love to see you there. Just ring 01873 737671 in advance to book your tea.
Oh, by the way, you don’t have to be a grandparent to enjoy it!