Who organises the Leigh Art Trail?

May 20, 2013

Leigh was recently featured in the Times "30 Cool Places to Live in the U.K.". The existence of the Art Trail is must definitely be one reason why Leigh was included in this list. Now in it's 16th year the Art Trail showcases a diverse range of artistic works throughout the shps and cafes of the town, where residents and visitors alike can enjoy the art and relax in the welcoming atmosphere. This year there will be lots of creative workshops for both children and adults alike, a visiting exhibition of Kenyan artists and a launch night in conjunction with Middle Aged Spread at the Ship on June 14th.

Orchestrating the trail which will take place from June 15th to 22nd this year and showcases the work of 46 artists in 36 venues, is no mean feat. This is the second year that Lester Mills has been chairman. His easy-going charm in the face of potential mayhem goes a long way in ensuring a successful Trail for all.  

An 'in-blown', he has been a Leigh resident for ten years now, Lester did the classic thing you do when you move to Leigh - he wanted to "get involved". He loved Leigh's individuality and creativity. An ex-City worker (but you really wouldn't believe that by looking at him), ex-Stepney estate boy (who has lost the accent along the way), and self-taught sculptor (a very fine one at that), Lester simply got more and more, and even more invloved until one day he found himself voted in as Chairman of the Art Trail at their AGM. 

What does being Chair invlove, apart from a lot of patience? Meetings, meetings and more meetings. Being custodian of the finances - the Art Trail is self-financing. He has a responsibility to support the artists, and nurtures relationships with the venues and sponsors. All in all he organises the organisers. 

As a final thought, why does Lester, who was interviewed for that Times feature, think Leigh is cool? Because it doesn't try to be was the non-plussed answer. That sounds just about right.

You'll find Lester's work, and quite possibly Lester himself, at his temporary home in the Broadway, the Faux Gallery.