Local artist creates watercolour of blossoming community
Written by Houlton Rugby
A local artist has been selected to create a painting of Rugby’s newest neighbourhood in full bloom this spring.
Victoria Parsons, whose impressive artwork explores wildlife and nature, was commissioned to capture the natural landscape at Houlton by master developer Urban&Civic.
Victoria has created a spring scene showcasing life at Houlton, which already enjoys 65 acres of accessible green spaces, nature trails, cycleways, walkways, ponds, beautiful wildflower, mature trees and natural habitats.
Having lived in Kilsby for 40 years, Victoria accepted the brief after being part of an open call for artists launched by Urban&Civic in partnership with Rugby Museum and Art Gallery to produce the piece of art.
The artistic process was captured via time-lapse to see how the piece was brought together and hopefully inspire others to pick up their pencils, brushes and pastels.
The initiative comes as part of Urban&Civic’s pledge to support local artists and homegrown talent throughout the area, while encouraging residents to explore the great outdoors on their doorstep and reconnect with nature.
Victoria’s bespoke mixed medium painting will be displayed at Houlton’s Visitor Centre and joins an outdoor exhibition within Houlton’s green spaces which shows winning entries of a photography competition from last summer.
Kyle Smith, part of the Urban&Civic team at Houlton, said: “We are dedicated to supporting the arts in Rugby, having previously worked on a variety of initiatives including sponsoring the Rugby Art Gallery Open Exhibition in 2018 and hosting an exhibition from local artist John Lines in 2019.
“The past year has highlighted the importance of both creative outlets and nature for our residents’ personal wellbeing, so what better way to recognize that than by commissioning a piece of art capturing a spring scene at Houlton.”
Victoria added: “I am thrilled to be partnering with Urban&Civic to capture the stunning scenery at Houlton. As a specialist in wildlife art, I truly believe we need nature for our physical and mental wellbeing; our connection to nature is as important as breathing.
“I hope my painting inspires people to get outdoors and take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the nature where they live. What’s more, I hope I’m able to do the residents of Houlton proud by capturing their home through this unique project.”
Houlton is already home to over 500 families and offers residents a host of first-class amenities on site, including an award-winning eatery The Tuning Fork, a community center The Barn, an adventure play park, and outstanding education at St Gabriel’s Primary School.
Later this year, the neighbourhood will see the opening of its landmark secondary school - Houlton School, as well as a co-op store and a new nursery facility ran by The Old Station Nursery.
To find out more about Victoria Parsons, visit www.victoriaparsons.co.uk
