SIX local artists have been quick off the mark to be amongst the first in the district to open a summer art exhibition this year.

With the biggest local art event of the year, Bucks Art Weeks, cancelled in June and many other smaller events following, many artists have been struggling with the feeling that although online exhibitions have been a good substitute, nothing compares to people actually being able to see their work.

So six artists - Linda Travers Smith, Graham Heron, Keith Francis, Trevor Baker and Stefan Richers - have teamed up to showcase their work in person at the George and Dragon Hotel in West Wycombe from August 15 to 23.

It may come as no surprise to learn much of the paintings exhibited were completed during the lockdown months.

Linda Travers Smith SWA, one of the artists and a member of the Society of Women Artists, said: “Initially there was mixed views amongst us on whether we should exhibit this year, but overall the desire to show our work won through.

“Painting can be a very solitary activity, which I guess is why most serious artists have a strong need to show their work to others. Something that has largely gone unsatisfied so far this year.”

Covid rules and social distancing guidance will apply at the exhibition.