World Art Games in Taunton to attract international artists

The World Art Games (WAG) will see international artists showcase their work across town venues for a week between Thursday, September 25 and Thursday, October 2.

Formed in the aftermath of the Yugoslavian war, WAG has grown into an international artistic organisation, holding events throughout Europe and beyond.

Endorsed by the International Peace Bureau, the organisation has fostered cultural exchanges between artists worldwide.

The 2012 establishment of the first UK WAG group in Taunton by Vanessa Garside and Dr Mansour Jumaa marked the beginning of a flourishing relationship, which will now see the county town hosting the week-long festival.

Taunton’s own Janet Glynn-Smith, Richard Holt, and Ms Garside are organising the festival.

Artists from various continents, including South America and Asia, will be exhibiting their artworks in the Brewhouse Theatre gallery.

There will be poetry readings and musical performances at various venues.

WAG International artists will also visit Somerset Museum, Hestercombe House and Gardens, Sheppy’s Cider Farm, Dunster, Watchet, and the city of Bath.

Part of the festival is a poetry-writing initiative for Taunton schools titled ‘We own it!’, organised by the Creative Innovation Centre (CICCIC) on Paul Street and sponsored by Taunton Town Council.

The poems will be given a special presentation at the CICCIC on Tuesday, September 30.

Throughout the festival, there will be a stall outside the Brewhouse Theatre for those interested in learning more about the WAG International Artistic Organisation.