THE FOUNDER of Horsforth’s annual Walk of Art is handing over the reins for this year’s event.

The community festival, which will take place in July for the fourth time, was set up by resident Lara Rule to promote creativity and talent in and around the town. She drew inspiration from fellow resident Ralph Bainbridge, who was already selling artwork from his driveway, and from people she met who were running small businesses and hobbies from their homes.

Lara said: “One part of the Walk of ART I have truly enjoyed, is the challenge of encouraging people who were too shy to take those first steps in getting involved. I am immensely proud when I meet people now who have since gone on to study in the arts, enrol in creative courses and even started small businesses because of the encouragement they received through the walk of art. So many people have made lifelong friends, met their neighbours and developed strong customer bases all because of this wonderful weekend.”

Lara, who is handing over to Kezia Roberts this year, said: “I was nervous every time I thought about handing over the reins. I knew that the WOA needed someone who absolutely understood why I had started it and who, I knew, would ensure it continues to be entirely community focused and completely free for all. It’s not just an art trail – it’s a community festival that celebrates creativity in every individual, through the mechanism of art. I’m all about people getting together and inspiring each other to ‘try’. Which is why I was thrilled when I saw one individual who always seemed to echo my thoughts exactly and I just knew that the Walk of ART would be safe under her watch.”

Kezia, who has worked as a project manager for 14 years, has been involved in the Walk of Art in various guises since its inception in 2015.

She said: “Outside of my working day I am a musician in a couple of national bands Vanguard and Old Skool Anthems. I also sing with the 300 strong wall of sound choir Inspiration with the Orchestra of Opera North as well as also making alternative garters for weddings.”

This year the Walk of Art also welcomes two new members of the team, Alison Colley and Samira Cakali.

Entry is open to all for the 2019 Walk of ART. Organisers are looking for anyone who does anything creative in order to inspire and engage others - from writers, poets, signers and drummers to lighting engineers, graffiti artist, ceramic artists and oil painters.

They are also looking for venues- such as sheds, garages, conservatories or houses that can be paired up with an artist, or an unusual space for a small exhibition.

Vist the Horsforth Walk of Art Facebook group or on Twitter @thewalkof_art. To get involved contact: horsforth-woa@outlook.com.