Bewdley has been chosen as the opening venue for national touring exhibition from the Sidney Nolan Trust

19 April to 6 May 2013

Open Thursdays – Sunday 11am – 4pm

Contact 07796 092262 for out of hours viewing and more information.

The recently refurbished Old Foundry Gallery and Studio located in the historic Brass Foundry of Bewdley Museum is pleased to present Words and Pictures an art exhibition of work by the Sidney Nolan Trust. “Words and Pictures” is an art exhibition from the Sidney Nolan Trust with two parts: “Words” refer to the Encyclopædia Britannica Challenge.

The Trust was given a set of 1950 Encyclopædia Britannica after all attempts by their original owner to find them a new home failed. They were destined to become pulp when the Trust stepped in with the idea of asking each participant in the "Challenge" to select a volume and transform it into a new work of art. Participants include established book artists and newcomers to this exciting new fine art medium. Some are regular members of the group of book artists working at the Trust; others simply responded to publicity about the project.

The “Pictures” are fine art prints on the walls of Hilary Baker’s delightful studio and Gallery within Bewdley’s town museum. Hilary and five colleagues from the Sidney Nolan Trust have shown together at a recent exhibition in Stroud connected to a major printmaking conference and festival. These are high quality works of art that complement beautifully the artists’ books in the Encyclopædia Britannica exhibition.

Artist Hilary Baker said “It is fabulous to be opening my new studio and gallery with such a vibrant and thought provoking exhibition” There will be two exciting workshop opportunities for any budding printmakers or artists who will have the chance to take part in two hands-on workshops during the exhibition.

Both workshops are run by highly experienced tutors from the Sidney Nolan Trust. On 27 April, an all-day course for adults will reveal the secrets of intaglio printmaking. With expert assistance from printmaker Mike Clements, participants will make intaglio plate using both traditional and modern materials and then print them on a portable etching press similar to those used for over five hundred years.

On 5 May, “Altered Books” will be the topic for internationally-known book artist Lin Charlston’s workshop. Participants will find out why people alter books, see and discuss a range of altered books, learn cutting and folding techniques and go on to make their our own altered books. Both workshops are highly recommended.