After a transformative redevelopment at Champney Treasure House, Beverley Art Gallery is thrilled to have reopened its doors to the public, showcasing a stunning new display of its collection.
For the first time in over a decade, the gallery has undergone a comprehensive redisplay, featuring some of its most iconic paintings alongside exciting new acquisitions, loans, and works previously hidden away from public view.
The gallery's Edwardian interior now boasts a striking new wall colour, carefully selected to highlight the blue details in paintings from the Elwell collection. The refreshed collection display includes new loans from Elwell expert and author Wendy Loncaster. The blue colour also provides a sophisticated backdrop for modern and contemporary works in the new "Beyond the Limit" section.
The new acquisitions include a previously unknown work by Mary Dawson Elwell depicting her husband Fred Elwell in his Beverley studio. There is also a 1960s abstract painting gifted by a member of the public prior to the closure, by Beverley-based artist Margaret Parker, as well as a darkly humorous still life by Gerald Harding, generously gifted by renowned international artist David Remfry RA. Additionally, the gallery has secured a significant loan from Remfry himself, 'Two Girls on the Shore', an early work featuring two figures on a beach at Spurn point.
Visitors can also explore newly commissioned films about the gallery and its collection on a state-of-the-art touch screen, made possible by Arts Council England as part of the Humber Museums Partnership.
Hannah Willetts, Curator of Beverley Art Gallery, said: "We are delighted to reopen our doors and invite the public to experience our refreshed gallery.
"Our new display showcases not only our treasured collection but also the artistic talent of our region and beyond.’’
The exhibition program kicked off with ‘Phil White: Waves of Colour’ a celebration of the Yorkshire coast by the artist, broadcaster and theatre designer. For the first time, the diverse facets of Phil’s creative career converge in this exhibition. Inspired by the ruggedness and natural beauty of the coast as well as the evocative charm of the seaside, he brings together 2D, 3D and sound elements in a multisensory experience.
Following Phil White’s exhibition there will be a major retrospective exhibition in spring celebrating the work of East Riding-raised artist and Royal Academician David Remfry in ‘David Remfry RA: A Homecoming’.
Councillor Nick Coultish, East Riding of Yorkshire Council’s cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism, said: ‘’It’s wonderful to see such a vibrant display of artwork at the newly renovated Beverley Art Gallery.
‘’The team have done an excellent job curating this fine collection, there is something for everyone to appreciate and we look forward to seeing what people think of the new and upcoming exhibitions.’’
For more information visit: www.eastridingculture.co.uk/champney-treasure-house-transformation/
