Annual art exhibit opens for fifth year

An annual art exhibition is showcasing the work of Guernsey artists.

The Guernsey Arts Open exhibition started on Saturday at the George Crossan Gallery in St Peter Port's Market Building.

The exhibition, which continues until the end of the year, features paintings, photography, sculptures and mixed-media art pieces.

Russ Fossey, head of arts development, said the "diverse exhibition" celebrated the "breadth of creative talent we have here within the Bailiwick and goes from strength to strength each year".

"The open has come to be known as a place where artistic friendships are forged and brings together artists of all ages," he said.

Ross Le Brun's sculpture of Deputy John Gollop features his signature carrier bag

About 180 digital and physical artworks were selected for the exhibition, with artists ranging from students and first-time artists to experienced professionals, a spokesperson for the gallery said.

One of the centrepieces of this year's exhibition is a papier mâché caricature of Guernsey's longest-serving deputy, John Gollop, known locally for his distinctive style and trademark carrier bag.

Guernsey Arts recently took over running the George Crossan Gallery for the next five years.

The free exhibition is open every day until the end of the year from 09:00 to17:00 GMT, including Christmas Day and Boxing Day.