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Didcot’s trees take root in new Artweeks exhibition at Cornerstone

Cornerstone Arts Centre in Didcot will be welcoming local artist Linda Benton to its gallery this May as part of Oxfordshire Artweeks.

Her latest exhibition, Didcot’s Oaks (and other notable trees), is a love letter to the leafy giants that shape the town’s landscape, along with the stories, poems and wildlife they quietly shelter. From sprawling oaks to characterful corners of woodland, the show invites visitors to see Didcot with fresh eyes.

Linda Benton said: “During lockdown, I really started noticing the trees around Didcot—especially the oaks. I found myself seeking out these beautiful, mature trees tucked away in corners of the town.

“I’m very excited (and a little nervous) to be filling the gallery at Cornerstone with my paintings and illustrations. I hope visitors feel inspired to head out, find these trees for themselves, and come away with a greater appreciation for just how important they are.”

The exhibition stems from a collaboration with The Poets’ Trail project, which encouraged local writers, both seasoned and spontaneous, to craft poems inspired by the area’s trees. Their words sparked a creative response in pencil, ink, oil, and watercolour. The resulting anthology, funded by a legacy from the late East Hagbourne poet Roger Phipps, will be launched alongside the exhibition.

Alongside the new work, visitors can also enjoy illustrations from earlier Poets’ Trail anthologies, The Four Seasons and Green Theme, offering a broader glimpse into an evolving relationship with the natural world just beyond Didcot’s doorstep.

Cornerstone, which is owned and managed by South Oxfordshire District Council, has been working with Artweeks supporting local artists to exhibit their work for over 15 years. The centre has its own gallery area and showcases art throughout the year, which the public can view for free when they visit, whether they are popping in for a show, class or refreshments in the café.

Phil Barker, Head of Communities at South Oxfordshire District Council said: “It’s great that we can support local artists with access to Cornerstone’s gallery. This exhibition brings together the creative talents of our community.

“Linda Benton’s artwork, paired with poetry inspired by our local landscape, offers a thoughtful and uplifting experience. I hope visitors leave feeling inspired to get creative too.”

Didcot’s Oaks is free to view in the gallery at Cornerstone Arts Centre from Tuesday 29 April to Saturday 31 May during opening hours. To mark the final day, live music will fill the gallery from 1pm to 3pm.

Whether you’re a tree-hugger, a poetry lover, or simply in need of a peaceful wander through painted woods, this exhibition is well worth a look.

For more information, visit the Cornerstone website.

Image by Linda Benton Edmonds Park Oldest Oak