OTTERTON resident and top political journalist Andrew Marr will open a green art exhibition over Easter.

OTTERTON resident and top political journalist Andrew Marr will open a green art exhibition over Easter.

The Habit Art exhibition, in Otterton Mill's orchard and nature reserve, provides an opportunity for several local artists to highlight environmental issues.

Mill owners Simon and Caroline Spiller have joined forces with celebrated environmental artist Serena de la Hey, who installed the Willow Man next to the M5.

The exhibition merges 'habitat management' with 3-D art to produce a new micro habitat.

Simon said: "The installations may support a single species or create a new micro-ecosystem.

"The works are designed to prompt questions about where we are going in our relationship with nature" he said. "Through this project we aim to push the boundaries on the way we celebrate local art and sustainability at the Mill."

The project has also been awarded funding through the Sustainable Development Fund managed by East Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and supported by a generous donation of wood from Devon Hardwoods in East Devon.

He added: "We are thrilled the project has been recognised by the East Devon AONB Partnership for its strong environmental message and educational agenda.

"The funds have helped us rejuvenate the nature reserve and enhance its conservation message after it was devastated by flooding last year."

Caroline said: "Andrew and his family have been customers of the Mill for several years. As a supporter of the arts and an artist himself, he was the natural choice."

The orchard is also being used to run environmental art workshops and bush craft demonstrations for schools and youth groups, as well as the general public.

.The artists involved in the project, including three students from neighbouring Bicton College and three established artists from East Devon, will also be present at the opening to meet the public and answer questions.

In addition, Otterton based bush craft and willow expert, Chris Holland, will provide an informal and fun opportunity for young and old alike to have a go at contributing to a work of environmental art on the day.

The Habit Art exhibition is free entry and runs from April 10 to 24.

The official opening on 11th April starts at 11am and all are welcome without advance booking.