After six years of changes and challenges, Alfred East Gallery reopens on Saturday 24th October with a major exhibition of Kettering’s art collection.
During the extensive renovation of the historic Gallery building, the collection stayed behind closed doors for the longest period since World War Two. This reopening exhibition, Faces & Places, is an introduction to the wonderful art within Kettering’s collection, bringing a curated selection of popular artworks out of storage and back on display.
Look out across the vast landscapes of Sir Alfred East, come face-to-face with the portraits of Thomas Cooper Gotch, and see the changing streets of Kettering in the watercolours of WT Wright. Big names from Kettering’s past are displayed alongside scenes from the local area – who have you heard of and where do you recognise?
Market Hill, Kettering by Walter Bonner Gash
Tracing the history of Kettering through its art, this exhibition highlights the wealth of creativity that has always been prominent within the town. Explore internationally important art created by local artists, learn how the collection began, and discover the origins of Alfred East Gallery itself.
But Faces & Places is more than a chance to be reacquainted with old favourites, it’s also an opportunity to meet new ones…
Kettering’s art collection continues to grow, and the centrepiece of the reopening exhibition is a stunning 120-year-old oil painting by legendary artist Thomas Cooper Gotch. Acquired on a long-term loan agreement from The John Gurney Charitable Trust, and made possible by Friends of Kettering Art Gallery and Museum, Golden Youth has never been exhibited in Kettering before. After a recent restoration by expert conservators, the vivid colours have come to life, showcasing the mastery of one of Kettering’s greatest artists.
Golden Youth (detail) by Thomas Cooper Gotch
New acquisitions, donated to the Gallery during the renovation of the building, will also be on display for the first time. Newly accessioned works from Walter Bonner Gash, Fred Jay Girling, Nina Carroll, and George Harrison join other long-standing favourites, demonstrating Alfred East Gallery’s commitment to developing Kettering’s art collection even further.
Faces & Places opens on Saturday 24th October in both the East and West Galleries within the historic Alfred East Gallery building. The exhibition continues in the East until Saturday 9th January, remaining in the West until Saturday 27th February.
Main Image: Golden Youth (detail) by Thomas Cooper Gotch