University of Bolton students unveil their artwork at Anderton Centre

Students from the University of Bolton have created an imaginative art trail at outdoor activity charity the Anderton Centre.

The second-year fine art students were given a brief as part of their public engagement module to reflect the history, geography, natural environment, or use of the centre, which is situated at Rivington Reservoir near Chorley.

The art trail they devised features a range of workshops, sculptures, dioramas and paintings, inside and out.

The trail is available as a semi-permanent installation and open for anybody to visit, by appointment, or as part of an organised visit to the centre, which is part of the University of Bolton Group.

Neil Greenhalgh, Lecturer in BA (Hons) Fine Art and Public Engagement module lead, said: “It was especially pleasing to see such creative responses from all the students at the proposal stage.

“Each student proposed their idea for this live brief to David Germain, the CEO of the Anderton Centre, earlier in the semester and we were delighted to see such creative and thoughtful responses.

“It is so important for students to gain experience with live briefs, and work with organisations outside the University. In Fine Art we are passionate about helping students gain the sort of skills and experience they will need to become professionals after graduation.”

One of the artists, Natalie Owen, said: “The Anderton Centre is the perfect place to visit from a gentle stroll around the area to kayaking, paddle boarding, abseiling and many more activities.”

All the artwork and workshops will be displayed and delivered at the Anderton Centre and the surrounding woodland.

Exhibiting artist Pauline Holt said: “It is a fabulous opportunity for students to launch this art trail which will be added to over the coming years and enable them to exhibit their art in the public field.”

David Germain, Anderton CEO, said “Students have been able to work on live briefs and gain additional employability skills, as well as industry experience. The work is fantastic and has really added to the Anderton experience.”

For more information on The Anderton Centre, or to organise a visit to see the exhibition call 01257 484220 or email info@andertoncentre.co.uk