ALMOST 200 artists will be showcasing their talent as the art trail returns to south Essex.

The events will celebrate the work of over 100 artists in Rochford, 60 artists in Hadleigh and 26 artists in Basildon as the creative spirit sweeps through the county as part of Essex County Council’s Summer of Art.

Workshops and exhibitions will be taking over shops, businesses and public spaces in all three town centres and the surrounding areas to encourage residents to indulge in their imaginative sides.

Fine art, photography, ceramics and textiles will be on display, with visitors having the opportunity to buy the originals and meet the artists who created them.

Councillor Jeremy Lucas, cabinet member for customer service, environment and culture, said: “I would encourage all residents to visit these art trails to see some truly fantastic works from over 100 local artists that will be exhibited in venues that include community spaces.

“There will also be artistic inspired events for the whole family to attend around the towns. There are a few Art Trails across the county still to come and I would encourage residents to support the wealth of artistic talent that we have in Essex; so join in and visit an Art Trail.”

Hadleigh’s week-long art trail returned for its second year on October 6, with Hadleigh Old Fire Station again taking centre stage as the town’s cultural hub, hosting numerous events such as the open studios weekend and an exhibition in the vibrant ‘Appliance Hall’.

Basildon residents will be able to enjoy their 10-day local art trail from October 5, with exhibitions being hosted at key cultural hotspots including the Towngate Theatre and Wat Tyler Country Park.

Meanwhile people in Rochford will be able to enjoy south Essex’s biggest art trail from October 27 with events such as craft markets and demonstrations at over 35 different venues.

For more information visit www.visitessex.com