A community arts project inspired by World War One opened its doors in Cannock earlier this week Monday, 3 December.

The Great War Art Exhibition displays original art from more than 300 school children from around the region, as well as thought-provoking works from members of the Norton Canes Watercolour Club and Chadsmoor Tapestry Group. The exhibition, highlighting and commemorating local involvement in the 1914-18 conflict is housed in one of SureStore’s 675 sq ft trade counters on the ground floor of its new self storage facility in Gallan Park on Watling Street. It is the culmination of a series of events and activities made possible by a massive collaborative effort by Cannock Chase Council, SureStore Cannock Storage Facility, the Armed Forces Covenant, Staffordshire County Council, and Inspiring Health Lifestyles.

Lisa Shephard, Community Wellbeing Manager at Inspiring Healthy Lifestyles explained: “Everything from Trench Art to Women at War, and the stained glass memorial windows in St Luke’s church have provided inspiration for artists exhibiting in this extraordinary gallery. If you’re new to art, but would like to give it a go, we will be providing all visitors with links to step-by-step instructions on how to produce your own original artworks, thanks to local arts professionals, Gez Whitehouse, Ruth Allen, Stephen Whitehead, Julia Jowett and Blue and White Creative.”

Paul Whittaker, SureStore Director added: “Having been warmly welcomed into the Cannock community, it is our absolute pleasure to host this remarkable exhibition. Enjoying arts and culture is an important part of a healthy lifestyle, encouraging creativity, collaboration and communication. This exhibition is testament to the diverse range of talent in the area. We are looking forward to meeting artists, family and friends and those from further afield with an interest in both WW1 and art over the next five weeks.”

The exhibition runs until Monday, 7 January.