Renowned Beverley born artist Fred Elwell is the subject of a new book which is to be launched at Beverley Art Gallery.
The long-awaited book, entitled ‘Fred Elwell RA – A Life in Art’, is by local art historians and recognised authorities on Elwell, Wendy Loncaster and Malcolm Shields.
This stunning publication is a fully illustrated account of Fred Elwell’s life and work. It demonstrates the genius of the versatile Edwardian artist who bloomed during his training in Antwerp and Paris where Loncaster and Shields say: “…in the white heat of the French art revolution he developed in stature under the leading tutors of the day.”
The authors have chosen to hold the official launch of the book at Beverley Art Gallery, on Champney Road, which has recently reopened to the public after undergoing a major refurbishment.
The new-look art gallery now offers a greatly improved space for temporary exhibitions as well as a vastly enhanced environment for its permanent exhibits, including works by Elwell himself.
The authors will be available to sign copies and have a chat about their new book from 2pm to 4pm on Tuesday 30 September.
After a short break, the authors will return to the gallery for an evening session, from 6.30pm to 8pm, which will include some light refreshments.
The launch event is being supported by the Friends of Beverley Art Gallery to whom the proceeds from the initial sales of the book will go.
Art Gallery curator Gerardine Mulcahy-Parker said: “We are delighted that Wendy Loncaster and Malcolm Shields have chosen to hold the major launch of their new book right here at Beverley Art Gallery.
“This is such a fitting venue for such an event, not only in light of Elwell’s connections to Beverley but also as it follows hot on the heels of the gallery’s refurbishment with Elwell’s works now occupying a prominent position in the new-look permanent exhibition space.
“We look forward to welcoming visitors to the launch event and to the gallery in the future.”
‘Fred Elwell RA – A Life in Art’ is priced at £19.95 and will be available to purchase from Beverley Art Gallery.
Councillor Richard Burton said: “It is fantastic news that the Beverley Art Gallery is to host this major book launch which takes place the day before the Beverley Literature Festival gets underway.
“This demonstrates what a hive of literary talent the East Riding really is and how much it has to offer the world of arts and culture.”
