FOR more than four decades a “hidden gem” exhibition in Somerset has showcased amazing miniature artworks.
Wells Town Hall is the home of the Hilliard Society’s International Miniature Exhibition, which has been running annually for more than 40 years.
Founded by Sue Burton, a gallery owner in Wells, and miniaturist Rosalind Pierson, the society’s first display was in May 1982 – and has continued ever since.
The name of the society was chosen as Nicholas Hilliard was a prominent Elizabethan miniaturist portrait painter, born in Exeter in 1547.
“The art of miniature painting is many hundreds of years old, originally being a way of recording someone’s portrait before photography was possible,” an exhibition spokesperson said.
“Miniature paintings and drawings or are generally no larger than 4.5 x 6 inches and sculptures no more than 10 inches.”
The exhibition opens on Saturday, June 7, and runs until June 14.
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New artists exhibiting this year include eco-artist Caroline Westan, who paints scenes on used teabags, as well as an artist from Ukraine and a group of young artists.
There will also be exhibits from many of The Hilliard Society members with subjects including landscapes, portraits, still life, wildlife and more.
To coincide with the opening, the society is hosting a Miniature Painting Workshop on June 7.
Pieces by Andrew Hutchinson, left, and Michael Coe
“The intention of the workshop is to introduce the technique of miniature painting to beginners, as well as helping artists who may already have some experience but would like to brush up on their skills or try out new ideas,” the spokesperson went on.
“There will be experienced, award-winning miniaturists on hand to tutor – this year including Michael Coe, Linda Kracht and Claudia Haesen.”
The workshop will run from 10am until 4pm at the Town Hall in Wells and costs £50, to include tea and coffee, and there will also be time to have a look around the exhibition in the Main Hall.
Thank you, Somerset leveller; is there nearby parking for Wells Museum and is there an entry fee there for the miniatures exhibition, please?
Hi Marion. The miniature painting exhibition is taking place in the Town Hall, Wells, which is in the Market Place. You can walk to Wells Museum from the Market place, across the Cathedral Green. Just ask for directions. There is some on road parking along the Cathedral Green and the High Street with a few disabled bays, but the nearest long stay carpark would be Union Street. Unfortunately, South Street Carpark will be closed due to Filming. I hope this helps and I hope to see you at the exhibition.