THE Ruthin Arts Network (RAN) team are already planning their next 'social' following a successful launch event. 

The launch of RAN's website in February was well attended by creative people. The guest list was made up of music and film producers, dancers, artists, poets, writers, musicians and a sculptor in wire.

Guests enjoyed music on flute and guitar by Diana Sanders and Pete Regan and following an introduction by Tim Baker, RAN chair, the free bilingual website was presented and explained by designer Haydn Peers of Snowdon Digital.

Councillor Anne Roberts, mayor of Ruthin, also supported the event.

Mr Baker said: “The idea for a website for creatives came almost casually, through a conversation about the lack of ‘space’ (either virtual or real) in our area where artists can mingle and connect. We formed a small committee and to our delight discovered that the Arts Council of Wales have a fund that is specifically geared to networking and connections between artists.”

During the launch event, guests asked questions of the RAN group members and then got to know each other while sampling biscuits baked by Marina’s Italian Cookery.

Councillor Roberts said: “I was most impressed. Now it is up and running, it will be a real boost for Ruthin and the surrounding areas. I also found the website very easy to navigate.”

The RAN team are hopeful that artists (whether amateur, semi-professional or professional) will meet through the website and enjoy a greater sense of an artistic community in and around Ruthin. Individuals and groups can advertise upcoming events on the website to promote what they’re doing.

All creatives are welcome to register, as are those with venues which could be suitable for exhibitions or performances. Similarly, those people who support productions in a technical capacity (e.g. sound/lighting and exhibition or production management) are welcome to join the site: www.ruthinartsnetwork.wales

The next RAN social will take place in the Feathers Inn, Ruthin, on Wednesday, May 15 at 7pm. There will be live music and an opportunity to meet and chat with like-minded people. All welcome.