Art and Artists at Pelham House
Pelham House continues its strong commitment to the arts.
In 1579 the carved pieces that form the decorative panels in the oak dining room were commissioned and installed.
Continuing this patronage and support to local artists, in 2009 the management commissioned photographs of the garden to be hung in one of the function rooms. Sarah Wenban's work was chosen. Not only is she one of our popular wedding photographers, but shewas also shortlisted for “international garden photographer of the year 2009.” www.sarahwenban.co.uk
For the first time in 2009, Malcolm West painter and sculptor was invited to be our “Artist in Residence” during the Easter weekend. This proved to be of great interest and enjoyment to our guests. So for 2010, we are delighted to welcome Tom Walker as our resident artist who specialises in working in chalk pastel.
He will be working during the Easter weekend with his drawings being exhibited later that week in the foyer, alongside more drawings unrelated to Pelham, but on a theme.
The restaurant seems to have now joined the Bar and Foyer as a changing exhibition space! Again, this year we have shows by many various artists in most mediums, i.e. painting, print, photography and sculpture.
Changes are made regularly to these ground floor exhibitions, therefore there will always be something new to see and enjoy.
Around the upper floors of the hotel you will find paintings and prints by artists who are on semi permanent display, although the work is for sale. This work is by Carolyn Trant, Hadrian Speight and Edward MacKenzie.
Carolyn Trant trained as a painter and a printmaker at the Slade. She now makes Artists Books, from which the exhibited images are taken. Some are from Gawain (and the Green Knight) and some are from Lorca.
Carolyn’s books have been bought, by amongst others, the British library, and the National Library at the V&A. She also runs the Paddock Printmakers Collective in Lewes.
Hadrian Speight, born in East Yorkshire, now lives in Lewes. His narrative paintings intrigue the viewer throughout the top floor.
Edward Mackenzie came to painting late in life, having been denied creativity in the harsh environment of his public school upbringing.
Patrick O’Donnell’s and John Petts' work can be found in various forms in the upper floor meeting rooms.
Also, on the ground floor you will often find work by Maria Kuipers. Maria ran a business for many years, but in 1998 gained a first class honours Degree in Fine Art.
She has exhibited at the Royal Institute of Oil Painters and is represented by many galleries around the country. You will find a painting inspired by Pelham House located in the small room beyond the reception leading to the garden.
