Many events over the past 16 months have shifted from their original ideas and platforms due to the coronavirus pandemic, resulting in cancellation, postponement or moving online.
WAMfest Felixstowe, a celebration of creativity amongst women in arts and music, was due to take place in conjunction with International Women’s Day in March 2021.
Whilst the planned activity including live performances, talks and exhibitions may have been postponed to September due to social distancing restrictions, one element of the celebration has already come to life and will progress over the summer.
A series of murals, the first of which was sponsored by Ipswich Building Society, have been painted on the hoardings outside the old Central Surgery building in Hamilton Road, Felixstowe by artist Catalina Carvajal.
Laura Locke, founder of Felixstowe Festival Events and WAMfest Felixstowe said “We are delighted to have been supported by Ipswich Building Society to launch our stunning mural in the centre of Felixstowe. The mural celebrates the great contribution made by women in many fields.”
Since the launch in March, four murals now appear in the seaside town having been sponsored by local businesses and community organisations. The Society’s Membership Marketing Officer, Kesha Allen said “Supporting our local communities is at the heart of what we do at Ipswich Building Society, so what better way to throw our support behind a fantastic event by sponsoring a panel and raising the awareness of women in the local arts and music scene.”
Lighthouse Women’s Aid are WAMfest Felixstowe’s nominated charity, of which donations are welcomed in attendance to the festival’s events. More information about the Lighthouse Women’s Aid can be found here.
WAMfest Felixstowe will now take place on Saturday 4 September 2021, with a launch party on Friday 3 September at the Arts Centre, Felixstowe. The main events will take place in Felixstowe town centre and the Orwell Hotel, which includes a range of performances and talks by women, of which everyone is welcome.
Laure Locke welcomes sponsorship of further panels and more information about the events schedule, how to support and for the latest updates, visit their Facebook page WAMfest Felixstowe.
