AN ART gallery has officially opened at The Orchard shopping centre in Taunton yesterday evening (Wednesday, October 16).

The Orchard Gallery represents the latest initiative from GoCreate Taunton CIC, a well-regarded local arts organization known for its contributions such as the rainbow pathway, Art Trails, festivals, and other creative endeavours.

The exhibition showcases the work of six talented local female artists who are members of GoCreate: Georgina Peters, Janet Glyn Smith, Jenny Keogh, Liz Hutchin, Samantha Foster, and Vanessa Snowdon-Carr.

Supported by The Orchard shopping centre, the gallery will operate from Wednesday to Saturday, 10am to 3pm, through the end of December, providing ideal Christmas gifts for those who appreciate local, original artwork.

Jenny Eastwell-Keogh, one of the GoCreate artists and directors, said: “We try to encourage and improve creativity in Taunton.

“It is about supporting local artists, and having a gallery it’s just a visible step to make the art visible.

“The Orchard has been very generous offering to use the unit while is empty. It’s granted until Christmas.

“For the future, we are looking for a multi-space to make the artists visible.

In addition to the artworks on display, the artists will engage in live painting sessions within the gallery.

They have also transformed the picnic benches in the courtyard with an 'Orchard' theme.

An upcoming festival, 'AppleFest,' is scheduled for Saturday, October 19, from 11am to 5pm