AN exhibition celebrating the work of local artists is to launch in St Mary’s Market this week.

Presented as part of St Helens’ year as Liverpool City Region Borough of Culture, We Reside* Here is a map publication which features the work of 63 artists of a range of disciplines who have been making work in the borough throughout 2023.

Supported by St Helens Borough Council Library Service as part of its work as an Arts Council England National Portfolio Organisation, We Reside* Here takes an intimate and innovative look at the creative processes of artists living and working across our borough, including nine recipients of the 2023 Reside* Creative Commissions.

Explaining the map publication, lead artist Claire Weetman said: “We Reside* Here aims to show everyone in St Helens that we have people with amazing talents right on our doorsteps. People in Parr can be proud of their performers, Sutton can shout about their sculptors, Dentons Green can stand up for their dancers and Newton can connect with their knitters.”

Throughout the exhibition in St Mary’s Market, visitors can expect performances, pop-up portraits from Helon Conning, artist talks, a cosy reading space to flick through anthologies, photo books, comics and graphic novels by participating artists – as well as an inviting workspace where anyone is welcome to spend time with other artists in creative pursuits.

St Helens Council’s cabinet member for wellbeing, culture and heritage, councillor Anthony Burns, added: “Our borough is home to many outstanding artists from a range of disciplines who we’re happy to support by giving a platform to whenever the opportunity arises – not least during our year as Borough of Culture which has been one big celebration of local talent and achievements.

“As we prepare to handover the Borough of Culture baton after what has been an action-packed year full of wonderful free events attended by thousands of residents, there’s still time to enjoy fascinating exhibitions like We Reside* Here.

“Whether you’re into your arts or visiting St Mary’s Market for the upcoming Saturday Christmas crafts fayre and family entertainment - be sure to find time to check out this well put together exhibition which is certainly worth a look at.”

We Reside* Here will be open to the public in St Mary’s Market Event Space from 2pm on Friday, November 24 until Wednesday, December 20.