Kith and Kin Exhibition
The Falmouth Art Gallery, located on the top floor of the Municipal Buildings on The Moor, currently holds fantastic art work that reflects the influence of family and relationships. Love and care is sincerely depicted on the work of art as well as the care that has been put into organsing the delightful works of art into the order of dates and relations to present a spectator with the real life familial connections expressed. By just observing the magnificient works of art – featuring the works of Elizabeth and Stanhope Forbes, Walter Langley, Charles Sims, Henry Scot Tuke and the Frost, Hilton, Lanyon and Nicholson families – one feels as if they were part of the family themselves, and can see the love and friendship that went into each piece.
The first exhibition preview took place on Friday 5th February, and I’m sure everybody there remembered that day and enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere and artistry immensely, and were welcomed by the staff with warmth. The ‘Kith and Kin’ exhibtion is the highlight exhibition of Spring at the Art Gallery, and due its message of friendship and family, and being a prime example of the work of numerous sensational Cornish artists, it is no suprise that many art enthusiasts and local community members showed simply to gaze on the sensational works of art and enjoy the warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Not only does one get to enjoy and gaze on the fantastic works of art, but they also get the opportunity to enjoy the warm atmosphere of the exhibition, decorated and beautifully spread across two rooms with space, discussions and refreshments to make the evening enjoyable and relaxed. Upon entrance you get offerde either an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage, whilst you engage with the stellar that comes from the fantastic exhibition. The staff at Falmouth Art Gallery are also a highlight, and pulled out all the stops for this fantastic night, making every single individual feel welcome and answering any burning questions on the works of art, as many of the staff members are experts on research on the ‘Kith and Kin’ art and other Cornwall based artists.
Although the likes of ‘Kith and Kin’ and the newcoming ‘Wreck and Ruin’ are the highlights of their seasons, the Art Gallery supports all manner of exhibitions, and I particularly found the ‘Limelight’ exhibition of mid-February especially engaginng, creating a modern vibe to the gallery. The ‘Limelight’ exhibition had a musical atmosphere and this musical theme was reflected in the fun attitudes of its supporters as well its creators who were also in attendance on the preview night. The exhibition reflected music expressed in work from Derek and the Dominoes to Led Zeppelin, and this rock n’ roll attitude was embraced by all – the perfect compliment to the works of ‘Kith and Kin’.
Upcoming Exhibitions:
Even if you don’t have the opportunity to witness the Kith and Kin Art exhibition, the next exhibition – entitled ‘Jerwood Drawing Prize’ (last year’s winner can be seen above) – is set to take place in April, and ‘Wreck and Ruin’ will also preview in early June.
Specific dates for the exhibitions are below:
Friday 22nd April: 11am – ‘Jerwood Drawing Prize Talk’
Friday 22nd April: 6-8pm – ‘Jerwood Drawing Prize’ Exhibition preview – this exhibition is the largest and longest running annual open exhibition and for art enthusiasts, likely needs no introduction. The exhibition showcases the work of drawing practioners from students to established artists and conveys the value of creative expression, a real treat for any Art students.
Friday 10th June: 11am – ‘Wreck and Ruin’ talk in the morning to answer any burning questions surrounding the mystery behind this new exhibition that would be as brillliant and engaging as the first ‘Kith and Kin’ exhibition.
Friday 10th June: 6-8pm – ‘Wreck and Ruin’ Exhibition preview
Both exhibitions will also be featured throughout the Summer period. Visit the gallery’s website for more information here!
(All photos available via Falmouth Art Gallery)