A bear sculpture and a rocking chair were the two stand-out attractions at the Waltham Abbey Art Trail, which launched over the weekend.

More than 50 pieces of art by 38 artists, both amateur and professional, from Waltham Abbey and surrounding area have been put on display.

In total, 46 businesses and public buildings around the town centre, in Sun Street, the Market Square, and Highbridge Street hosted the town’s exhibition.

The event was launched at the Tourist Information Centre in Highbridge Street when Epping Forest District Council vice chairman, Cllr Helen Kane, and mayor of Waltham Abbey, Cllr Antony Watts, on Saturday, August 10.

Both councillors were given their Trail Guides and set off to find the numerous art designs, first stopping at Henry Ward Property Solutions to unveil a unique exhibit.

A seven-foot-high Bear made from Nintendo Wii products created by professional artist, Billie Achilleos, a puppet, prop and set builder.

Mr Achiellos also has another piece in The Gatehouse Café called “Owl” which is made from kitchen appliances and utensils.

Another art piece viewed by the councillors was a steampunk copper rocking chair made by Richard Madeivo which is on display at the Core Gallery of Epping Forest District Museum.

Epping Forest Guardian:

An array of paintings, drawings, photographs, sculptures and felt work make up the town’s first art trail including two paintings by Rosie Moran, aged 11.

Art Trail organiser, Tricia Gurnett, thanked all the businesses and artists taking part, including Essex County Council and Waltham Abbey Town Council for their support.

Ms Gurnett also thanked residents Jane Simpson and Chrissie Pryor to their help in organising the art trial in particular, presenting them each a bouquet of flowers.

Epping Forest Guardian:

The Waltham Abbey Art Trail will run until Monday, August 26, further details are available from email:

WalthamAbbeyArtTrail@outlook.com

or Telephone: 01375 374786.