This October sees the return of a drawing challenge event called “DRAWING BREATH!” at West Stow Country Park, and it’s sure to be a big hit with anyone that has a creative side or enjoys a walk in the countryside. It’s happening as part of The Big Draw, a national campaign to get people of all ages drawing, with thousands of events at venues across the UK. People looking for other events can visit www.thebigdraw.org.uk
This is the sixth annual Big Draw and since it began in 2000, it has encouraged over a million people back to the drawing board and notched up two Guinness World records – for the longest drawing in the world (1 kilometre) and the greatest number of people drawing simultaneously (over 7000). This year’s Big Draw national launch will be in London on Sunday 2 October, with a unique street festival and carnival parade, plus free drawing activities and workshops that will take over London’s Exhibition Road in South Kensington.
The “DRAWING BREATH” challenge is one of a number of local Big Draw activities which people of all ages and abilities can get involved in. It will be on every day through October, providing an opportunity to get a breath of fresh air as you follow the “DRAWING BREATH” walk through the CountryPark, stopping off at special places to immerse yourself in the surrounding wildlife and get inspiration for your “DRAWING BREATH” sketches and illustrations.
To take part in the challenge, you simply need to pick up a “DRAWING BREATH!” pack (£2 each) from the Visitor Centre at WestStow Country Park, available 10am - 4pm, everyday 1 – 31 October. The “DRAWING BREATH” pack includes full instructions, a map to follow, marked with special stopping/drawing points, plus paper, pencils & everything you need to get creative in the countryside!! When the challenge is completed you can take your artwork home or add it to a special display in the Visitor Centre, then maybe enjoy a warming drink or snack the Café (open 10am – 4pm).
West Stow Ranger, Christine White says:
“Our Big Draw event is a great opportunity for people to get some fresh air and exercise, as well as getting creative and enjoying the beautiful Suffolk countryside. We’ve called it “DRAWING BREATH” because it’s all about drawing and also getting a breath of fresh air at the same time. Last year we got some fantastic drawings and art work added to our display in the Visitor Centre and I’m sure this year is going to be even better!”
West Stow Country Park is seven miles NW of Bury St Edmunds off the A1101, with an excellent play area, café, gift shop, nature trails, lake, river and bird-hides all on site. For opening hours and further information about this event and others at WestStowCountryPark and Anglo-Saxon Village, call 01284 728718, email weststow@stedsbc.gov.uk or visit www.stedmundsbury.gov.uk/weststow.htm
