Oriel Q Gallery in Narberth is highly regarded for its focus on contemporary art and its vibrant contribution to the local art scene. Here are some key points highlighting its quality and offerings:
High-Quality Exhibitions: Oriel Q Gallery is known for its well-curated exhibitions featuring both established and emerging artists. The gallery presents a diverse range of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and mixed media, attracting a broad audience.
Community Engagement: The gallery is deeply involved in the local art community, often hosting events, workshops, and talks. These activities provide opportunities for local artists to engage with the public and for visitors to learn more about contemporary art practices.
Positive Visitor Feedback: Visitors frequently commend Oriel Q Gallery for its welcoming atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and the quality of the exhibitions. The gallery is often described as a cultural hub in Narberth, contributing significantly to the town's artistic vibrancy.
Support for Artists: Oriel Q Gallery is committed to supporting artists by providing a platform for them to exhibit their work. This support helps to foster a dynamic and evolving art scene in the region.
Cultural Significance: The gallery plays an essential role in the cultural life of Narberth, offering a space where contemporary art can be appreciated and discussed. Its exhibitions often reflect current themes and trends in the art world, making it a relevant and engaging destination for art lovers.
History
As part of the group Taf and Cleddau Community Arts, we started holding exhibitions in the Bloomfield Community Centre in 1987 and, from 1989, in the annexe of the Queen's Hall.
When the Hall was developed in 1994, we began to use the top floor to show exhibitions, improving the lighting and the walls.
In 2004, The Arts Council made the Queen's Hall Gallery a revenue funded client, and Lynne Crompton was employed to be the manager and curator.
Unfortunately, with cuts in The Arts Council of Wales budget, revenue funding was withdrawn in 2007.
A lottery grant was awarded for three years to carry on the basic activities. Since 2010 we have had to apply for Lottery Funding year on year. Each round has become increasingly difficult due to the continued pressure and cuts placed on the Arts Council of Wales and unfortunately, the gallery was unsuccessful in it’s 2019 bid for funding.
The Gallery moved from Queen’s Hall to Market Street We are now volunteer led with a great group of Professionals and Artists whose job it is to make the Gallery sustainable for the future and retain this independant Art Gallery for the whole community in South West Wales, a far reaching vision for the Arts and opportunities for All kinds of Artists to utilise this fabulous Art Space and Gallery.
New applications for funding will be made to secure our abilities to provide the vibrant programme of exhibitions, events and workshops we have re established.
If you are in a position to offer sponsorship or some financial support, please contact Harriet Addyman on Mobile 07917292774
Mission
Our mission at Oriel Q Gallery is to:
be a flagship for the Visual and Applied Arts in West Wales;
provide a stimulating programme of contemporary exhibitions and related talks;
serve the local and national artistic community;
provide a platform and source of income for artists;
develop an educational policy that will support teachers in meeting the curriculum objectives, in delivering the Literacy and Numeracy Framework and enhance pupils' knowledge and experience of art in and of Wales;
to make the gallery, its services and facilities accessible to all;
to pursue policies of non-discrimination in all its activities.
Current activity
Using our exhibition space on-site, Oriel Q provides a stimulating series of exhibitions involving artists at different stages of their life and careers, who work in a range of processes and media. This is supported by an educational program that encourages pupils from primary school through to 6th Form and art students to engage with the gallery.
There are exhibitions planned for 2025 which will show in the Gallery.
We have a small space in the main gallery which showcases ceramics, sculptures, jewellery and books; perfect for a last minute birthday present!
Education
Artists' talks and lectures regularly take place around the exhibitions.
Schools and groups of all ages are welcome to request talks and demonstrations connected with the exhibitions.
Please contact us if you are interested in giving a talk or holding a workshop at Oriel Q Gallery.
If you would like to become a sponsor, please contact Harriet Addyman to discuss the mutual benefits.