RIO set for Devon Open Studios debut

AN Ottery community recycling centre has been transformed into an art gallery.

Artist Lee Godfree hopes his paintings will put Recycling in Ottery (RIO) and his home town on the map in Devon’s Open Studios event.

“I paint using the materials that end up here, so there’s only one place to display the finished work,” said Lee, a RIO worker turned director.

“We are constantly juggling with space, as regulars will have no doubt noticed. I’ve been down there this week, making space to display my work.”

Lee has been preparing a special version of his biggest seller this year- ‘St Georgeous’- a version of the St George flag.

“I’m hoping to have a version of the Devon Flag ready for the exhibition,” he said.

Lee has produced earthworks at Glastonbury and other festivals, and recently helped paint a huge mural in Fore Street, Exeter.

He also set up the Rurals Arts Collective which exhibited at Kennaway House during Sidmouth FolkWeek.

Residents will be able to pick up an arty RIO bargain during the event, which will run until Sunday, September 19.

“I’ll be bringing new pieces on a daily basis,” said Lee.