A CHURCH in Winchester is hosting a series of art lectures in support of its fundraising project to refurbish the venue.

‘Art at St Bart’s’ begins with a session led by glass engraver and founder of the series, Tracey Sheppard, on April 27 at St Bartholomew’s Church in Hyde.

All four artists have links with the area and will be sharing the inspiration behind their work. All proceeds will go towards the church’s ‘Giving for Living Appeal’ to raise funds to revamp the building which was founded in 1110.

Hampshire Chronicle:

The Rev Karen Kousseff, rector of St Bartholomew and St Lawrence with St Swithun-upon-Kingsgate, said: “The supreme skill of medieval stonemasons is part of the rich heritage of St Bartholomew's Church and it is very exciting to be hosting this series of evenings with four contemporary artists who are so highly renowned in their fields.

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“The series is a wonderful way to support the Giving for Living Appeal, which is for the refurbishment and upgrading of the church, so that it can become a vibrant centre of heritage and culture, as the city's active link with the story of King Alfred and Hyde Abbey, as well as being the parish church for Hyde and Abbotts Barton.”

Following Tracey Sheppard will be painter Belinda Hunt and portrait sculptor Robert Hunt on May 25 before the final lecture with textile artist Alice Kettle on May 11.

Each talk will include a question and answers session and refreshments. Tickets cost £10 per lecture or £25 for the whole series and must be booked in advance. Doors open at 6.45pm for a 7pm start.

To book go to threesaints.org.uk/art.