THE Severn Vale Art Trail 2017 showcasing the work of 63 artists opens from April 28 and runs until May 7.

This popular event includes an exhibition by Trish Claridge, prestigious portrait artist, at the Castle School’s Octagon Visual Arts Centre and is hosted as part of the Thornbury Arts Festival.

Shirley Sharp, an established charcoal and paint artist, will ehhibit her thought provoking pictures at CLaSH Artspace in Thornbury.

She is accompanied by enthusiastic artists who paint, print and create installations.

In addition to the group venues St Mary’s Church in Berkeley opens its doors to three experienced painters, Jenny Smith, Gloria Jones and Gill Moules.

Increasing the numbers of Dursley artists are a group of four painters at Kingshill House.

Not to be missed at Thornbury venues are two jewellers, Rosemary Millar and enamel artist Gill Harkness.

Charfield has a growing group of artists, including Mitra McQuilton and Karen Schwamm, who use stitchery to create stunning pictures ceramicist Liz Armstrong and photographer Sarah Martin. There are also many open studios.

The Showcase Exhibition at Thornbury Town Hall is from May 5-13 offering a range of contemporary artworks by members of the Severn Vale Art Trail.

Visitors will be able to meet artists in their studio. The Art Trail starts in Olveston and stretches through Thornbury to Berkeley and Dursley.

  • For more contact Jane Parfitt at the Thornbury Arts Festival 01454 613581 or visit thornburyartsfestival.com/arttrail