Cast a beady eye over arts scheme
08-FEB-10
Issued by: Duncan Bennett
A former jewellery shop in a North Tyneside shopping centre is set to open its doors again next week - but with a difference.
The former Grant's Jewellers in the Beacon Centre, North Shields, will be transformed into The Children's Bead Shop as part of an arts project to brighten the former store.
People of all ages are invited to drop in between Monday 15 February and Friday 19 February, from 10.30am and 3.30pm, and help colour beads on friezes of paper pots, necklaces and bracelets.
The initiative is being led by Cullercoats-based artist Kathryn Wakeman and is supported by North Tyneside Council as part of its commitment to town centre businesses.
Refreshments will be provided and everyone who takes part will be given a free goodie bag donated by Le Beado of Jesmond.
Kathryn said: "People don't need to have been to an art class to take part, they can just drop in and have some fun.
"We're doing this in a former jewellers, which made me think we should do something along the same lines but with beads, as they are very colourful.
"I'm hoping that if a family are out shopping they can come in, mum or dad can take their weight off their feet and their children do a bit of painting.
"By the end of the week, it would be great if we've been able to transform what is currently a dark and empty space into something really vibrant."
For more information contact North Shields tourist information centre, TEL: (0191) 200 5895.
ENDS