A major new exhibition at Beverley Art Gallery is bringing world-class art to the heart of the town, in what is being seen as another step towards Beverley’s ambition to become a future Town of Culture.
‘Memories of Drawings’, featuring the work of Georgia O’Keeffe, is a touring exhibition from the Southbank Centre’s Hayward Gallery and showcases 21 rare prints charting her development as one of the most influential artists of the 20th century.
The free exhibition runs from 28 March to 23 May and spans nearly five decades of work, from early abstract drawings to studies of landscapes, flowers and natural forms.
Alongside the exhibition, visitors can watch Georgia O’Keeffe: The Brightness of Light, a documentary directed by Paul Wagner, featuring Claire Danes and Hugh Dancy.
The exhibition also includes a hands-on drawing activity inspired by objects from the East Riding Museums collection, including rarely displayed items such as a mammoth tusk, shells and a wasp’s nest, with a space for visitors to display their own work.
Councillor Nick Coultish, cabinet member for culture, leisure and tourism at East Riding of Yorkshire Council, said: “This wonderful exhibition celebrates almost half a century of work by the celebrated artist Georgia O’Keeffe.
We are excited to see what the public think of this free exhibition and feel privileged to host the first-ever screening of documentary The Brightness of Light as part of an exhibition dedicated to her work.”
Hannah Willetts, curator at Beverley Art Gallery, said: “Georgia O’Keeffe is one of the most important modern artists of the 20th century.
This month marks 40 years since her death, and this is a chance to celebrate her enduring impact and share her inspiring work with visitors to Beverley Art Gallery.”
Graham visited the gallery ahead of the opening and said the exhibition reflects what local people have said they want to see more of as part of Beverley’s cultural future.
Graham said: “When I asked people what Beverley should showcase as part of a Town of Culture bid, there was a clear message.
“People want to see more happening in the town. They want things families can enjoy. And they want Beverley to make the most of its heritage and bring people in.
“This exhibition shows exactly what that looks like in practice.
“It’s free, it’s open to everyone, and it brings something genuinely special into the town. That supports local businesses, gives families something to do, and helps make the case for Beverley as a Town of Culture.
“This is about building a record of real results, not just a bid on paper.”
