For our latest “cuppa with” feature, we caught up with Helen Gerrard, aka Mermaid Tales, who has been captivating the town with her incredible “Glossopy” paintings of local scenes. Helen is an artist and illustrator based locally.
Tell us about your creative practice!
“My creative practice is diverse and rooted in a love for traditional materials and varied styles. I enjoy working with acrylics on canvas, and my recent focus has been on the "Glossopy" series, which captures quirky local landmarks and scenes. Each painting is a vibrant, whimsical interpretation of familiar sights, aiming to evoke a sense of nostalgia and delight.
Additionally, I've ventured into storytelling by co-writing and illustrating the children's book "The Bee Polisher" with my husband. Beyond painting, I create high-quality prints and cards, which can be bought locally.”
How do you feel about Glossop’s creative & cultural offering?
“Glossop has a rich and vibrant creative community that I find incredibly inspiring. The town is home to many talented artists, musicians, and writers, all contributing to a dynamic cultural scene. Local venues and organizations, like The Globe, Victoria Hall and Partington Theatre provide essential platforms for artists to showcase their work and connect with the community. The support and enthusiasm for the arts in Glossop is truly heartening, and it’s a privilege to be part of such a thriving cultural environment.”
How does the town’s heritage and culture reflect within your creative practice?
“Glossop’s heritage and culture are central to my creative practice. The "Glossopy" series, for example, is a direct celebration of the town’s unique landmarks and everyday scenes. I aim to capture the essence of Glossop's history and charm in my work, presenting it in a playful, quirky style that resonates with both locals and visitors, young and old alike. The town’s rich history and beautiful landscapes continually inspire my paintings, helping me to create pieces that reflect the spirit and character of our community.”
What would you like to see in Glossop (and its surrounding villages) that will help to bolster the town’s cultural and creative community?
“I would love to see more collaborative spaces where artists can work, share ideas, and inspire each other. I would like to see more encouragement for people of all abilities to engage locally in art, as it is a great aid to mental health and well-being. Support for public art projects, such as murals and installations, would also help to enrich the town’s cultural landscape and make art more accessible to everyone.”
What are your three favourite venues/ventures and services in the town?
“Glossop Craft Centre: The Centre has provided art and craft supplies in Glossop for over 30 years. Wendy, and her friendly staff are always on hand to help!
Victoria Hall: This historic venue is a cornerstone of Glossop’s cultural life. It hosts a variety of events, from art exhibitions to live performances, bringing together people from all walks of life to enjoy and participate in the arts. Its beautiful architecture and rich history add a special charm to any event held there. It is also a vital hub for many local community groups.
Demento66: A fantastic not-for-profit music and arts project based in Glossop. Run by dedicated local volunteers, Demento66 leverages their extensive experience in music events and promotion to create unique and engaging events for people in the town, at different venues, including The Commercial Inn, The Globe and the Partington Theatre.
Find out more about Helen - https://www.facebook.com/helensmermaidtales
