Exmouth: Community artwork vandalised just one day after being put up in Manor Gardens

Artwork made by more than 150 people has been vandalised in Exmouth's Manor Gardens after just one day.

It was all created during a free 'picnic and paint' event led by community artist Hayley Watson and a representative from East Devon District Council.

The event was designed to improve the wellbeing of families and children at the end of the school holidays, and the artwork was displayed in the bandstand on Tuesday 7 September.

The artist Hayley Watson has also been operating a community initiative called 'Isolation Community Creations' during the Covid-19 pandemic which provides families and those in need with free arts and crafts kits.

By Wednesday 8 September, it was discovered that the artwork had been vandalised, and paintings apparently torn or taken down.

An EDDC officer said: "So many people responded positively when we were installing the artwork it's a great shame that a few individuals have ruined it. If anyone knows anything about this please report to the police."

Hayley Watson and Isolation Community Creations intend to hold more workshops in spite of the damage.

Businesses that would like to sponsor the initiative should contact their Facebook page.

Individuals can donate to their ongoing Crowdfunder page here.

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