AN EXPRESSIVE artist has been selected to create a painting of Rugby’s new neighbourhood in full bloom this spring.
Victoria Parsons, whose artwork explores wildlife and nature, was commissioned to capture the natural landscape in Houlton by the estate’s master developer, Urban&Civic.
Kilsby resident Victoria accepted the brief after taking part in an open call for artists from Urban&Civic in partnership with Rugby Art Gallery and Museum.
The artistic process was captured via time-lapse to see how the piece was brought together – and hopefully inspire others to pick up their pencils, brushes and pastels.
Victoria’s bespoke mixed medium painting will be displayed at Houlton’s Visitor Centre, and joins an outdoor exhibition around Houlton’s green spaces which shows winning entries of a photography competition from last summer.
Victoria’s mixed medium painting of springtime in Houlton.
Victoria said: “I am thrilled to be partnering with Urban&Civic to capture the scenery at Houlton. As a specialist in wildlife art, I truly believe we need nature for our physical and mental wellbeing – our connection to nature is as important as breathing.
“I hope my painting inspires people to get outdoors and take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the nature where they live. What’s more, I hope I’m able to do the residents of Houlton proud by capturing their home through this unique project.”
The initiative is part of Urban&Civic’s pledge to support local artists and homegrown talent throughout the area, while encouraging residents to explore the great outdoors on their doorstep and reconnect with nature.
Kyle Smith from Urban&Civic said: “We are dedicated to supporting the arts in Rugby, having previously worked on a variety of initiatives including sponsoring the Rugby Art Gallery Open Exhibition in 2018 and hosting an exhibition from local artist John Lines in 2019.
“The past year has highlighted the importance of both creative outlets and nature for our residents’ personal wellbeing, so what better way to recognise that than by commissioning a piece of art capturing a spring scene at Houlton.”
Visit www.victoriaparsons.co.uk for more about the artist.
