‘Sunflowers’ exhibition at Sea View Art Barn, a huge success!

The captivating show of work by Exeter-based artist, Anna Donovan and supported by James Tatum, tutors and students of the new creative hub based near Ladram Bay, Otterton raised more than £850 for Devon Ukrainian Association last weekend.

The exhibition was opened by Alan Cotton MBE on Friday 21st August, who gave a heartfelt speech alongside art barn owner and sculptor, Frances Margaret and friends of South West Academy Trustee, Gillian Burbidge.

The spark for this special event began when Anna met Frances at her home and spotted a sunflower painting in her kitchen. This revealed that Anna had been creating a large body of work in response to the plight and suffering of the Ukrainians since the outbreak of war there in February 2022. Only fitting then that the exhibition would go on to raise funds for the Devon Ukrainian Association.

James Tatum SWAc, a friend of Anna Donovan, was delighted to support along with tutors, students and friends of Sea View Art Barn. Sunflowers painted by children from Ladysmith Primary School were also on show - a collection of paintings created as part of a creative project run by artist and educator, Nic George.  

Frances said, ‘What a special show it was! I’m very pleased it came together so beautifully. A grand effort by all those involved to whom I’m most grateful. And wow what a sense of community there was!’

Sea View Art Barn is very much looking forward to its next show as part of Devon Open Studios when ten local artists will be showing work and James Tatum and Phil Creek will be running various demonstrations.