ORGANISERS of the 3 Harbours Arts Festival are preparing to launch their first online event this summer, after 16 years of live community festivals.

The festival runs from July 3 to 11 at 3harbours.co.uk

The festival normally takes the form of a multi-venue live event throughout Cockenzie, Port Seton and Prestonpans but the decision to move it online was made earlier in the year when coronavirus restrictions were tighter.

Organisers admitted that adapting a live community festival to a virtual event was challenging but decided that it was better to have an online festival than no event at all.

The festival posted a social media appeal to East Lothian artists, musicians, community groups and workshop facilitators to submit artwork and videos earlier in the spring.

Featured artists are still to be confirmed.

Beki Dover, festival co-ordinator, said: “The response has been fabulous: we are very excited about the variety and standard of artists who have submitted work. It’s so important for the arts to have a platform following such a difficult time when live performances haven’t been possible, and galleries have been closed periodically.”

This year’s annual art exhibition will take the form of an online gallery and shop where festival-goers can enjoy a diverse mix of paintings, illustrations, printmaking, jewellery, 3D art and more, created by established local artists and newcomers.

Music videos will include recordings by professional East Lothian musicians, as well as collaborative music produced by schools.

Videos for families include arts and environmental activities to try at home.

Cockenzie Primary School have recorded videos of budding artists’ creations.

Beki added: “The community can find expressive arts films, authors and, for those feeling inspired to try something new, there are painting and printing tips, opportunities to get involved with projects and Zoom workshops.”

Organisers hope live events will resume in the future.