Burnham-On-Sea’s first-ever Spray Jam Festival has been hailed a success by organisers after crowds of people headed into the town centre on Saturday (August 13th) to see scores of street art displays and entertainment.
Dozens of contemporary and traditional street artists displayed their work in Burnham town centre – with more of the work onshow today (Sunday).
Organiser Becky Hewlitt, pictured below, told Burnham-On-Sea.com: “It was a fantastic day with over 30 artists – both traditional and street artists – creating art live across the town centre, getting great feedback.”
The work of 35 artists went on show at Marine Cove, including pieces from 20 students at King Alfred School in Highbridge.
Visitor Nigel Smith said: “Yesterday both my kids went into school, voluntarily, during the school holidays to do an art class with their teacher. Today, they were out and about at the event, talking to the artists, learning about painting techniques and putting that to use with their stencils in Marine Cove. The town is buzzing with creativity today – I love it!”
Art works were also on show at The Victoria Hotel, Crafty Tea Cup, Hallmark Tattoos, The Vapoury, Coffee Corner, Nick Tolley Photography, and Andrews of Abingdon Street.
While some traders in the town centre said there had not been enough prior consultation about the road closures and content of art to be created in some public areas, others welcomed the increased footfall, saying it had helped trade.
Kai Martin, a DJ at Marine Cove, said: “This is the best thing ever to happen on Burnham. Thank you so much to the Town Council for backing this. I’ve seen people of all ages out enjoying Spray Jam. It’s been such a friendly vibe – I’m loving it!”
There was also a stage with live music outside the Victoria Hotel, with performances by local musicians, while buskers and poetry readers were also about the town centre.
Another visitor, Jill Webb, added: “We had a lovely day in Burnham-On-Sea watching the street artists creating their wonderful art, and enjoying the whole atmosphere around town. Congratulations to the organisers of this event.”
A sand sculpture display also take place on Burnham’s beach and there were also craft stalls set up in Victoria Street.
The Town Council recently earmarked £2,000 of its funding towards the event.
Also see:
What’s on in Burnham-On-Sea and Highbridge
