St Leonard's Church, Forres hosting fine art exhibition and weekly lunchtime Scottish music recitals
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A LOCAL church is hosting a free celebration of the arts.
The community is invited to enjoy artwork on display at St Leonard's Church by Jonathan Luxon, Iona Leishman and other local artists from 10am-4pm tomorrow and on Thursday, as well as traditional Scottish music recitals by James Wiseman each Wednesday lunchtime from noon for the next three weeks.
Jonathan lives in Kinloss, paints at Orchard Road Studios and teaches at Moray Art Centre as well as with local art groups.
He said: "My work is quite varied - as well as portraits I oil paint realistic landscapes, figurative scenery and Christian depictions.
"I'm a Christian at Forres Baptist Church and I'm pleased to have my work on display at St Leonard's which is a lovely, spacious environment."
Iona moved to Kinloss 10 months ago.
She said: "Findhorn and the surrounding area have been incredibly influential to me over the last year of painting. Many of the pieces I have on display at St Leonard's were inspired by the forests and beaches here.
"St Leonard's is a welcoming venue right on the High Street - please just step inside!"
Rev Donald Prentice confirmed there will be more than 20 original paintings to see, some of which may be purchased as originals or as prints.
He added: "We've held lunchtime concerts for a few years now. They provide free entertainment and experience of the arts in the summer. The church does this out of love for the community.
"Our first of three music recitals will be a medley of Scots tunes played on the piano accordion by Jim, an accomplished accordionist who has played many dances, Scots nights and weddings.
"This coincides with the exhibition of fine art by Jonathan and Iona, two notable and highly original artists.
"The music and art is enjoyable and life-enriching so please come and enjoy some quality experiences!"
St Leonard's session clerk, Roy Anderson, hopes the events bring more people into the church and help develop stronger links with the community.
He said: "The recitals are always very popular and greatly enjoyed. The exhibition offers the chance to see some beautiful paintings in a peaceful and beautiful setting."
