Exeter artists reunite at Heavitree café to raise money for the community space that launched their careers
A landmark exhibition this summer will reunite every artist who has shown work at Park Cafe since 2021, with proceeds going back to the charity-run community space that supported them.
A café in Exeter is to host an exhibition bringing together every artist who has shown work there since it opened four years ago, with a portion of all sales going to the charity that runs the venue.
Park Cafe, in Heavitree Pleasure Grounds, will display work by 19 Devon-based artists from 2 July to 31 August as part of its Art in the Park exhibition. Each artist has been invited to contribute one signature piece.
The café has been run since 2021 by Park Life Heavitree, a charity set up to provide a community hub for local residents. It is staffed by a mix of paid employees and volunteers.
Since opening, the venue has displayed work by more than 27 artists across a series of solo and group exhibitions, offering a free and informal alternative to traditional gallery spaces.
Kath Hadden, a trustee of the charity who is also an artist and has curated the exhibition, said: "Park Life is so much more than a café. It's a genuine creative and social hub for the local community. This exhibition celebrates not only the artists themselves, but the atmosphere and sense of connection the café has fostered over the years."
Works on show will range from wildlife and landscape painting to contemporary, abstract and illustrative art. All pieces will be available to purchase, with a percentage of each sale donated back to Park Life Heavitree.
Entry is free during café opening hours.
Park Cafe, Heavitree Pleasure Grounds, Exeter. 2 July to 31 August. Free entry.