A festival featuring artwork by regional artists and messages of hope from over 1,400 local youngsters could return in future years after being hailed a success.
Tales and Trails Festival, which took place at Brandon Country Park on Saturday, September 21, attracted families to an outdoor showcase of new art commissions.
The free family-friendly event inspired by the environment and organised by Brandon Creative Forum and MarketPlace, included specially made works by five artists including bespoke installations, sculptures and a musical soundscape.
The festival also saw the culmination of the 'Letter to Me 2050' project led by Ali Atkins, creative agent for MarketPlace. Over 1,400 children and young people, aged between three and 16, shared letters, drawings and hopes for their world in 2050.
"It has been really moving to talk to young people and hear about their hopes for the future and their aspirations. We were excited to bring these all together to create a powerful art installation by the children and young people of Brandon in 2019," said Ali Atkins.
The festival programme also included storytelling, performances and activities for people to take part in - all themed around the environment.
Festival spokeswoman Amy Wormald said: "It was a really successful day with lots of people helped by the sunny weather. A favourite thing was a piece of work by Art at Work which was a walk with mirrors so it felt like you were walking in the tree canopy.
"Brandon Creative Forum has been working with MarketPlace for about four years but this is the first time they have done an event on this scale. But the idea is that if people enjoyed it they will do more in future."
Claire Somerville, chief executive of Babylon Arts, said: "We were delighted to be able to support this project. The MarketPlace programme is about working with communities to develop new creative opportunities.
"It's fantastic to see so many young people, schools, community groups and volunteers getting involved. The Brandon Creative Forum worked really hard to plan the Tales and Trails festival - and it was a really fantastic day."
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