Think Cumbria is all hills and lakes? Think again. The area is home to a bustling mix of renowned museums and art collections. The latest wealth of exhibitions, in nearby galleries and centres, do not disappoint. May is looking set to be a great month for any would-be art connoisseurs to come and visit us.
Over in Conniston there is an amazing exhibit on at Brantwood, home of John Ruskin. Admission is £7.50 for adults, whereas children go free.
Brantwood is showcasing both historic and contemporary works held in the Blue Gallery and the Severn Studio Gallery. The programme features exhibitions of Ruskin’s own works alongside displays of contemporary local artist’s works. Some of which is considerably cutting edge.
For further details see www.brantwood.org.uk.
Also on the calendar, is some excellent exhibitions at Theatre by the Lakes. Situated in Lakeside, Ceswick, this artistic space is both pleasant and vibrant. It has two gallery spaces used throughout the year. They feature a collection of exhibitions, performance areas and workshops. Admission to the galleries is free, however the programme is often subject to change and the galleries do close to the public from time to time. Visit www.theatrebythelake.com for further information about current and forthcoming exhibitions.
Finally, visit The Rheged Centre, in Redhills, Penrith to see a portrait of Lakeland. This fine art photography exhibition takes a year round look at the Lake District landscape, focusing specifically on some of its most prominent inhabitants – the sheep farmers. Photographer Ian Lawson has charted the highs and lows of shepherd life in the high fells of the Lake District. Ian presents a year in the life of this unique breed, from lambing in spring, to wild winters on the high fells. The collection is a touching tribute to the noble, livelihood of the Lake District farmers, one which is sadly under threat by the ever evolving tools and machinery made available through advices in agricultural technology.
For further details see www.rheged.com/herdwick-portrait-lakeland