A free, family-friendly street party is being held in Guernsey’s Old Quarter on Saturday to mark the end of Art for Guernsey’s exhibit, ‘Diversion’.

The event will feature face painting, music, arts and crafts, and is a final opportunity for the public to see the art that’s been created and displayed throughout the area.

Diversion was a multi-faceted event organised by Art for Guernsey. 

It included a contemporary art exhibition at the Art for Guernsey Gallery, and a summer-long initiative that transformed Mansell Street into a street art canvas. 

The project involved both local artists, such as Ross le Brun, Tim Gaudion, Luke Gallie, and Express reporter Luke Webb. 

You can read Luke’s write up on the Diversion Exhibition HERE.

Diversion also featured numerous international artists, including Teddy Baden, Leo Boyd, and Charlie Mcfarley. 

Additionally, children from the Art for Guernsey’s Summer Holiday Art Club contributed to the street art, learning all about the history of the medium, from cave paintings, to hieroglyphics and onto modern day street art. 

The primary goal of Diversion was to revitalise and inject energy into the Old Quarter which had been in decline for many years. 

By using art and cultural activities to transform derelict buildings, the organisers hoped to increase footfall for local businesses, bring the community together, and replace what was considered an eyesore, with an attraction for both visitors and residents. 

That hope has been rewarded, according to the General Manager of Art for Guernsey Caitlin Grupping who says the murals are staying following the positive public reaction.

“Diversion as an exhibition has been incredible. Reflecting back my highlights were definitely the mischief of diverting people through the gallery with the road closure; seeing the artists at work on their murals; and the bright, wacky colours and patterns inside the gallery are about to be swapped out for something very different.

“The street art however is going nowhere! The feedback from the community and visitors alike has shown how much appreciation there is for art in the community.”

Ms Grupping added: “Rejuvenating Mansell Street isn’t just about the visual, but also the community spirit. People take the time to stop, smile, and engage with one another. We are so grateful to our sponsors and the artists alike for making the ‘festival of art’ (to quote Curation Director Jock Pettitt) all possible.”

The street party is open to all, taking place on Saturday afternoon, from 14.00 till 16.00.