Aspects of St Ives - Sun, Sea and Inspiration

Filmed over a number of visits, this video portrays aspects of daily life in the beautiful seaside town of St Ives. Originally released on VHS tape. We have been frequent visitors to St Ives for many years now, and have never tired of strolling along the harbourside, or sitting at the water’s edge, and watching the world go by. St Ives is a seaside town, civil parish and port in Cornwall, England, United Kingdom. The town lies north of Penzance and west of Camborne. It used to be commercially dependent on fishing. The decline in fishing, however, caused a shift in commercial emphasis, and the town is now primarily a popular seaside resort. St Ives was incorporated by Royal Charter in 1639. It is not easy to fully explain the attraction of this award winning town, and what draws us back here time and time again? We could say, it’s the ever-changing harbour scene with its unique two-lighthouse pier and fishermen. Maybe it’s the network of picturesque alleys and cottages clustered about the old town. Or, how about the quality of light, and the spectacular crescents of golden sand and azure blue sea, almost straight from the Mediterranean? The town has been a magnet for artists and art lovers, for over a century, with a thriving artistic community and a host of galleries. This has been further enhanced by the arrival of the new Tate St Ives overlooking the Porthmeor surfing beach, which showcases the work of Barbara Hepworth, Bernard Leach, Alfred Wallis and many more. But really, the essence of St Ives is a combination of all these things. Then add an extra dash of Cornish hospitality, which we trust will shine through this programme, and give you a real taste of the magic of St Ives. Robin Walton April 2002 Produced by: Robin Walton Narrated by: Fred Dinenage