What's On Burton at Bideford. Exhibition: The Permanent Collection Curated by Community Groups

A fresh look at the Burton at Bideford’s Permanent Collection of art through the eyes of the town’s local community

A new must-see exhibition at the Burton takes a refreshing look at the gallery’s Permanent Collection of art and has been co-curated by three local community groups in collaboration with gallery staff.

Over the course of the past six months, Women’s First, Devon Recovery Learning Community, and the Burton Young Photographers, have had a unique opportunity to delve into the gallery’s store and take a closer look at their Permanent Collection.

Under the expert guidance of the Learning and Engagement team, participants were invited to explore works from the Collection in relation to their own personal stories and lived experiences. They were then encouraged to create their own art in response.

Participants learned a variety of skills in the process, including printmaking, photography and collage. The exhibition showcases participants’ work alongside rarely exhibited works from the Burton’s Permanent Collection.

In looking at art from the past from a variety of new and contemporary perspectives, we’re reminded just how relevant art is in our modern day world. The exhibition also highlights the importance of art and creativity to good mental health and wellbeing.

Carole Evans, Learning and Engaging Manager says,

This collection was left to the Burton for the people of Bideford to enjoy. What better way to do so than to provide opportunities for members of the community to spend time with the artworks, and then creatively respond? Through the eyes of the community groups, the paintings from the collection become more meaningful and more relevant to today’s society. The new work provides an insight into what concerns people who live here today, in particular the benefit of creativity to wellbeing.

 

In commenting about the project, one of the participant says,

Art is my passion. To be a part of this exhibition means everything to me. I would never have imagined I would be involved with something like this. It’s dreams coming true.

Women’s First is a project run by Encompass and aims to support women who are rough sleeping, sofa surfing or living in temporary accommodation.

Devon Recovery Learning Community is a free, open access service funded by Devon Partnership NHS Trust to support mental health and wellbeing.

The Burton Young Photographers are a group of 14 -18 year olds who have been meeting at the Burton on Tuesdays after school to learn the art of photographic portraiture through a series of free workshops funded by the Fine Arts Society.

  

The Permanent Collection: Curated by Community Groups is open daily from 22 May until 4 July. Admission is free.

 

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Burton at Bideford Permanent Collection: Estuary by Reginald James Lloyd © the artist

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The Permanent Collection Curated by Community Groups
22nd May-4th July

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Burton Art Gallery and Museum, Kingsley Road, Bideford, Devon. EX39 2QQ