Entering the Autumn season and having to trade in summer attire for big jumpers and more layers is probably one of the least favourite times of the year for many of us in the UK. But with so many creative events happening on our doorstep, it is actually a rather great time of year for Merton. Over the past two weekends, we have had the Merton Arts Festival encouraging artists to explore this year’s theme Taking Liberties whilst covering the borough with art. Speaking of exploring, one of my highlights of the festival came from the free Stitch, Print and Process workshops which allowed people of all ages to create their very own banners and pendants. This was followed by a procession along the Wandle and Merton Abbey Mills which can still be enjoyed on Instagram if you didn’t manage to catch it live. Although the festival has now come to an end following two weekends of creative fun, you will still find coverage of the festival on social media, so be sure to keep an eye on that for what you may have missed and what is still to come.
Next up we have the Wimbledon Bookfest which will be providing us with 10 magical days on the Common from the 4th October. In their article in this month’s newsletter, they have given us an insight into what we can expect during this year’s much anticipated festival and we can hardly wait. If you still haven’t secured your tickets, or require more information, be sure to check out their official website and get booking now.
Sticking with the theme of books, writing, and exploring, the month of October also brings us the celebration of National Libraries Week (NWL) which falls on the 8-13th October this year. Whilst this is a fantastic time to celebrate all libraries nationwide, it is an even better time to recognise Merton’s award-winning libraries and appreciate the investment of time, effort, and money that has gone into developing them over the years. Throughout the specified week, all of Merton’s libraries will be running special events and activities for people of all ages, so be sure to see what your local library has on offer. To conclude the week, a very special finale will be taking place at Wimbledon Library on Saturday 13th October as it hosts its first edition of the increasingly popular ‘library lates.’ This event is scheduled to begin at 17:45 and will include free talks on health and wellbeing, and a free film screening to ease us into the end of a fantastic week.
As we step into the final two months of 2018, the Wimbledon International Music Festival returns to celebrate its 20th year anniversary! Those who are familiar with the festival will know that the WIMF has seen a number of outstanding musical talents take to its stage over the years, so this year shall be no different. Furthermore, if being a spectator isn’t enough and you are a musician who would love to be a part of this year’s event, you are invited to apply for a spot at Playfest – a day of music making with a series of performances which will take place on Saturday 3rd November. For more information on this amazing opportunity including the requirements and the application form, please visit their official website, and don’t forget to start booking your tickets now.
Genevieve Etienne-Farrell
