An exhibition delayed by the pandemic will go on show for the first time today in the renovated and redeveloped chapel at Vicarage Road cemetery transformed into a new art space for Watford.
Awaken is an exhibition of John Richard Hewitt, one of the artists who currently utilises one of the studio spaces in the chapel.
The building was redeveloped by Watford Borough Council and is now home to four studio spaces, an independent makers shop and exhibition space.
Amma Gyan says Amanartis is about 'enriching' Watford
The chapel is now owned by artist Amma Gyan, who first developed her business Amanartis eight years ago, setting up previously in the Old Free School.
Amma said the space “is about enriching the wonderful town that Watford already is, with a new destination to be proud of, a place to bring friends and give birth to new ideas and hope”.
The space originally opened in October 2020 but due to the pandemic it had to postpone the opening celebrations and the Awaken exhibition, which will be open from 12pm to 4pm today.
One of the artist's paintings
John, who is originally from Exeter but relocated to Watford, is an artist who focuses on portraiture and has been developing a series of icon paintings.
He has dedicated many hours to honouring and perfecting the techniques of the old masters and in doing so, creates modern paintings with a timeless classical style.
Awaken opens today and runs for six weeks.
For more information, visit Amanartis’ website amanartis.co.uk
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