The Art Gallery is the pièce de résistance at the Royal Norfolk Show 2023.
Theodore Dreiser once wrote: “Art is the stored honey of the human soul.”
With more than 300 pieces of art to view, the Royal Norfolk Show’s Art Gallery is a hive of activity where you can be introduced to your new favourite artworks and discover the local talent in our area.
“My favourite part of the Royal Norfolk Show is the buzz in the Art Gallery when we open on the first day of the show and working with our fantastic team of art stewards,” says Art Gallery administrator Rebecca Banyard.
“The exhibition showcases the work of Norfolk and East Anglian artists and includes a mix of artwork from oil and acrylic paintings, pastel, pencil drawings and lithograph prints. Alongside returning artists, we also have 30 artists exhibiting at the show for the first time.”
Located at Third Drive on Avenue 9 at the end of the Grand Ring, the Art Gallery offers the chance to purchase original paintings, drawings, felt work and ceramic and cold cast bronze sculptures, with prices to suit every pocket!
Artists will also be working en plein air around the showground and at the gallery throughout the two days, so don’t miss your chance to watch as artwork is created before your eyes. There will be several demonstrators near the art marquee working live and knowledgeable art stewards are on hand to discuss the work with visitors.
The marquee is sponsored by Arnolds Keys and managing partner Guy Gowing will be presenting the Sponsor’s Choice Award for his favourite artwork. Last year’s winner was local artist Esther Albone’s ‘Four Faults’.
“At Arnolds Keys, we are delighted to show our support for our county’s many talented artists,” Guy says. “Norfolk is home to many great artists, and it is a pleasure to see such a cross-section of their work at the Art Gallery.
“Choosing a winner of the Sponsor’s Choice is always a serious business given the high quality displayed at the exhibition. We are looking for that extra something which stands out – the wow factor which draws the eye and makes a picture or sculpture irresistible.”
Returning for the second year, the Visitors’ Choice Award gives the public the chance to vote for their favourite piece of art at the show. Last year’s winner was Vivienne Rainsbury and her acrylic painting ‘Silence is Golden’, which depicted a barn owl in flight. Runner up was Peter Jamieson’s ‘Morston Quay, Norfolk, High Tide’.
“Art is for everyone,” says arts and culture head steward Tom Cringle. “It can be literal or abstract, colourful or tonal; it can make us think about the world around us or can take us to another place. It can start conversation or cause silence. “You can take part by doing it or you can just sit back and enjoy by looking at it. Whatever it is, it is free to view and we have lots of it to proudly show off at our art exhibition.”
A portrait of the artists
Esther Albone, winner of the Arnolds Keys Sponsor’s Choice Award at the Royal Norfolk Show 2022.
What inspired you to paint ‘Four Faults’?
‘Four Faults’ was painted specifically for the show, relating to an event taking place. I was surprised and elated to win this award. It was an ambition come true.
What should visitors look out for at the Art Gallery?
Visitors to the gallery will be surprised at the selection of works on display – many topics, styles and mediums are represented.
If you enjoy what you are looking at, there’s no more to see.
Any advice for would-be artists?
Be true to yourself.
Vivienne Rainsbury, winner of the Visitors’ Choice Award at the Royal Norfolk Show 2022.
What inspired you to paint ‘Silence is Golden’?
I walk my dogs very early each morning. One day at Lound Lakes, a barn owl came out of the woodland and flew alongside us. It was a magical moment and one I hoped to convey in my painting. I was delighted to win this award, as ‘Silence is Golden’ is one I really enjoyed painting.
What should visitors look out for at the Art Gallery?
Artworks should speak to you and evoke a memory, a feeling, an emotion. There’s such a wide variety of work in the Art Gallery in all sorts of mediums – some traditional works and some innovative, contemporary pieces. There’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Any advice for would-be artists?
Paint to please yourself. If a painting doesn’t have significance for you as an artist, it won’t appeal to anyone else.
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