ARTOLICANA, the Ilkley based Art Organisation headed by Geoff Benson, has established an important initiative for artists and it is proving highly successful.

With many years experience of selling art and staging art exhibitions, Artolicana has created what is regarded as an ideal environment for artists and the public to meet, buy and sell original artwork,

A monthly scheduled programme of events encourages the public to embrace the artists themselves and discover creativity and talent on a person to person basis.

The idea of a stuffy gallery

environment with little

atmosphere are cast aside as

people are actively encouraged to enjoy themselves and

participate in the artist's work at a friendly and meaningful level.

"We are all different in our ideas of what we like when it comes to art, so an opportunity to see lots of artist's work at the same time makes sense when it comes to presenting a well thought out exhibition," said a spokesman

"The ability to meet artists in person really is the icing on the cake."

He said that these events also allowed artists a rare chance to mix with their fellow creative spirits and get a genuine response from the public to their art.

The monthly series of Pro-Am Events continues on Sunday October 26, from 10am until 4pm, and on Sunday, November 30, at the same time.

The events are held at The Memorial Hall, Main Street, Addingham. Bookings can now be made for the 2004 schedule of events. There are 10 exhibitions commencing, Sunday, February 29, 2004 10am until 4pm.

For further details contact Artolicana, 25 Church St, Ilkley, West Yorks, LS29 9DR. Telephone (01943) 603866

RIGHT: Rita Stead is pictured with one of the paintings on display at the Addingham event.