Baron

Originally Posted by Baron

Nightingales on Roan Street by Mervyn Beaver

In the year 2000, a group of artists, writers and musicians decided to collaborate for various projects. We put together exhibitions, staged concerts and produced several theatrical events. By the beginning of 2001, the Ambiance Group had its own gallery and its internet presence sprang into being. The gallery was located adjacent to a chiropody clinic so we gave it the tongue in cheek name, "Art and Sole".

Initially the Art and Sole site was set up to mainly promote the visual artists and musicians but by 2002 it started to lean more in the direction of publishing books by members of the group. Over time, the music and visual arts faded away and the publishing emphasis took over. This was by natural evolution rather than intent.

Changes in my own life mean that I no longer feel able to devote the time to Art and Sole, although I will still maintain some involvement with the next phase of this journey. The more prominent authors from Art and Sole are now being moved to a new outlet, Beatrice Benn Books. I will still be the link between the authors and the new site.

To remember the beginning of this journey I've set up a new gallery on my website. As well as displaying my own book cover designs, I've uploaded images from many of the artists who were involved at the start. You can check out the gallery here.