Jill Reidy

The Solaris Centre in South Shore, Blackpool, is a popular drop in point for winter prom walkers in need of a hot drink or a tasty snack. Whilst they thaw out, what many of these customers don't realise is that there are two long corridors branching off from either side of the cafe, housing a rolling programme of art displays which are well worth a look. 'Take Ten' is a collective exhibition by ten local artists and is a diverse mix of screen prints, drawings and photography. The group came together by chance when Two Old Birds with Cameras (Dawn…

Entering the Kingfisher Care Home in Cleveleys is a bit like being cocooned in a warm blanket. I’ve been in several such places over the years, visiting elderly friends and relatives, but this was a real home from home. Installed in the hallway between lounges, waiting to take photographs, I watched as friendly staff moved around, chatting to residents and ensuring they were comfortable. All was very calm and peaceful. I was there to meet Lindsay Wylie, the owner, and Gillian Hesketh, owner and director of Happy Days Publishing. Part of Gillian’s business is to supply various packs for dementia…

There has been a big change at Blott Artist Studio in the last few weeks. Laura Havenhand, central to the running of the studio and a good friend to all members and fellow artists for the past four years, has recently left to pursue her art career in Leeds. She will be much missed at Blott, and told me she had initially been very upset at the prospect; that she felt it was the end of a chapter. However, she assured me that she would keep in touch and would always be grateful to Corrine, artist and gallery owner, at…