They reopen with an exciting programme beginning with the display of a brand-new acquisition from renowned landscape artist, John Atkinson Grimshaw. In the Golden Mists of Autumn, extends upon a growing theme within the Lakeland Arts collection of the effects of climate change captured in art. Grimshaw’s work will be displayed alongside works by J M W Turner, John Ruskin, plus recently acquired work by Emma Stibbon, and will explore the important role that art can play in documenting the ever-changing world around us. The painting will be displayed in the Oliver Thompson Gallery until 14 March 2021.
Kerri Offord, Head of Curatorial said: “Grimshaw’s atmospheric work is a fantastic new addition to our collection! It adds significantly to our collection of 19th-century paintings and beautifully illustrates the effects of climate change over the last two centuries when shown alongside the works of Turner, Ruskin, and Stibbon. We are incredibly grateful to HM Government in Lieu of Inheritance Tax scheme for this allocation from Garth and Alison Doubleday.”
The Arts & Crafts house also celebrates the launch of YouCurate!, a new display of much-loved pieces from the Lakeland Arts collection. When M H Baillie Scott designed Blackwell, he did so in the spirit of a well-established and still relevant ethos: that art and beauty are essential for a good life. In the same spirit – and with Abbot Hall currently closed for redevelopment – there is now a dedicated space devoted to art chosen by Members, staff, and visitors, so everyone can continue to take pleasure from works that they’d otherwise miss.
Visitors can choose a piece from the Lakeland Arts collection to appear in YouCurate! at Blackwell by searching https://artuk.org/ and emailing: collections@lakelandarts.org.uk.
Chief Executive Rhian Harris said: “We are absolutely delighted to finally welcome visitors back to Blackwell after such a long time away. We have had an enormous amount of support from the public and access to culture is so important during challenging times.”
“Blackwell is a wonderful environment to take your first steps into the new normal. We’ve introduced new safety measures, notably timed ticket entry and limited capacity, to ensure that visitors can enjoy the peaceful setting of the house in a socially distanced manner.
Tickets are available online. Check the website ahead of visiting to find up to date opening times and information on what to expect when you get to Blackwell.