Scenes Unseen exhibition at The Theatre, Chipping Norton

An exciting new project is bringing together artists, theatre lovers, and the community in a unique and inspiring way in Chipping Norton. Scenes Unseen is the first charity auction of original postcard-sized artworks, raising vital funds to support The Theatre in Chipping Norton.

Professional artists and creatives with a connection to the theatre or the local area were invited to create original postcard-sized artworks interpreting the theme Scenes Unseen however they wish. While the title may hint at the theatrical, there’s no requirement for the work to depict the stage. Instead, the emphasis is on originality and artistic expression.

Daisy Takes a Turn, by Nicola Key The art ranges from the silly to the sublime, with notable local and professional artists, illustrators and photographers – including Rob Ryan, Lucy Pratt, Elaine Kazimierczuk, Nicola Durrant, Caroline Chappell and Judith Yarrow and Private Eye cartoonists Clive Goddard and Paul Shadbolt, alongside recognisable names from the world of comedy and drama who have performed at The Theatre, including Dom Joly, Adam Kay, and Josh Widdicome.

Sarah Jarman, a Chipping Norton-based author and illustrator, says, ‘I am thrilled to be able to help fundraise for Chippy Theatre through Scenes Unseen. The Theatre is one of the reasons why we chose to move to Chipping Norton from Bath ten years ago. It is a vital part of the community, and I am keen to see it continue to thrive.’

The Theatre in Chipping Norton is a registered charity, which for over 50 years has been entertaining, supporting and welcoming audiences from across the Cotswolds with a varied programme of live theatre, comedy, music, film and visual arts. They also produce their own shows, increasingly rare for a small rural theatre of just 220 seats, and offer a broad participatory arts programme. Over the last 5 years The Theatre have also developed an extensive community programme and is now recognised as a leader in providing arts-led support for marginalised or disadvantaged rural areas, working in schools, care homes, even playgrounds to support better mental health, address food poverty and create opportunities for those who may not otherwise be able to access them.

Spotty, by Dom Joly ‘Scenes Unseen is more than just an art auction – it’s a testament to the power of creativity, community, and the arts in Chipping Norton, and a unique opportunity to acquire an original artwork whilst supporting The Theatre’s work,’ says Katie Shama, the theatre’s fundraising officer.

All artworks will be exhibited in The Theatre Gallery during Oxfordshire Art Week (May 17-26), offering visitors a chance to admire these miniature masterpieces, before bidding to own them in an online auction running until May 26.

chippingnortontheatre.com