Revelling in this unhurried season of rest and relaxation, we send our warmest greetings to you all. Revived and excitedly looking forward, we bring news of award-winning artists, the release of our annual exhibition programme—and of course—a fantastic selection of superior artwork. Even so early on in the year, we could not be more pleased with our course for 2024 and the joyful satisfaction our collection of fine art brings.

We are delighted to congratulate contemporary pastel artist Ian Rawling on his selection for the Caran d’Ache Award at the Pastel Society’s 125th annual exhibition at the Mall Galleries, London. A member of the Pastel Society since 2021, Ian’s work has consistently captured the imaginations of visitors, colleagues and collectors alike. Admired and awarded year after year, in addition to this year’s achievement, Ian won the Schmincke Prize at last year's exhibition and the Visitor’s Choice Award in both 2018 and 2019.

After much anticipation, we are delighted to reveal our full exhibition lineup for the year ahead. Consisting of five shows and two art fairs, the programme includes annual favourites like Clare Haley: Light of Yorkshire and Sean Durkin: Art for All!, as well as new shows featuring the work of artists including Ian Rawling, Stephen Hawkins and Edward Hersey. Outside the gallery, we are thrilled to debut our collection at Fresh Art Fair: Cheltenham in April before making a return to Manchester Art Fair in November. With so many exciting exhibitions and events on the horizon, 2024 is already looking to be our best year yet.  

'Transitions' is our frist exhibition of the year, opening on the 16th of this month. Reflecting on the concept of constant growth, change and movement in the natural world, this mixed show brings together a dynamic collection of original paintings and sculpture from some of the gallery’s favourite artists, including Julian Mason, Terry Evans, Philip Hearsey and David Sawyer, RBA, among others. Starting in the deep days of winter, the exhibition gently guides us as we ourselves transition to those first, precious days of spring.

As we prepare for an exciting year ahead, we continue to grow and curate our collection with pride. With recent arrivals from Richard Telford, Steve Thoms, Terence Clarke, Stephen Hawkins and Edward Hersey to name but a few, the gallery’s collection climbs from strength to strength, each new artwork adding another layer to its rich identity. Do visit our Recently Acquired page to see the most recent additions and stay up to date with the newest arrivals to the gallery.

As ever, we thank you for your patronage and look forward to welcoming you to the gallery soon.