NO.20 — AUTUMN 2018 NEWSLETTER £1.50 WHERE SOLD FRIENDS OF THE METHODIST MODERN ART COLLECTION

New Chair for the Collection Lord Leslie Griffiths ‘In Focus’ ‘Awakening’ – The Collection in the Isle of Man

‘GameNewsletter 20 — Changer’ Autumn 2018 – The Collection visits Cromer 1 NO.20 — AUTUMN 2018

EDITORIAL Contemporary paintings on I have to report, with some sadness, that John Gibbs, our PROFESSOR ANN SUMNER founding Chair of the Methodist Modern Art Collection, Neatly concurrent with her appointment as our new Chair of the Management Committee of the Methodist Modern Art Collection, is standing down after a remarkable 20 years at the helm. we congratulate Ann on her election as a Fellow of Aberystwyth University. This is very much in recognition of her contribution to the Christian themes: the Church A full tribute to John will appear in the Spring 2019 arts, both in Wales and within the UK, over many years. Newsletter. He will be succeeded by Professor Ann Sumner, Ann’s citation reads as follows – a Management Committee member of some years standing. Art historian, exhibition curator and museum director Professor Ann This Autumn also sees the retirement of Vice-Chair - Sumner has been honoured as a Fellow of Aberystwyth University. and the artist Professor Ann Sumner serves as an external consultant on the Meryl Doney, Secretary to the Friends - Bob Williams, and University’s School of Art Museum and Gallery Advisory Board. She was Paul Bayley, all Management Committee Members who, Head of Fine Art for Amgueddfa Cymru - Museum Wales from 2000- over a good number of years, have given generously of their 2007, and Director and Professor of Fine Arts and Curatorial Practice at the Barber Institute of Fine Arts at the time to Collection affairs. from 2007-12, before being appointed Head of Cultural Engagement The subject of our ‘In Focus’ feature in this edition is at the University of Leeds. Educated at the Courtauld Institute of Art, Fifty-five years on, Friends will find it fascinating to read The will agree there is nothing trivial or weak about them. Surely , she undertook her PhD at Newnham College, Lord Leslie Griffiths of Burry Port. Known to all within Cambridge. She began her career at the National Portrait Gallery in Foreword that introduced the first ever travelling exhibition many of them do suggest something of the power and agony Methodism as a former President of Conference and long London, and held curatorial positions at the Whitworth Art Gallery, of The Collection back in 1963… A mammoth logistical of the Cross; and the artists have not thought only of the University of Manchester, Dulwich Picture Gallery, Harewood House serving Superintendent Minister at Wesley’s Chapel in Trust and the Holburne Museum, University of Bath. She was recently commitment that involved taking the newly designated face of Christ, but also of His hands and his feet, of what He the City of London. Noted equally for the wisdom of his appointed Chair of the Methodist Modern Art Collection. Collection to approximately 30 different venues countrywide, suffered and of what He did. Try to look at these pictures words, both spoken and written - (q: “Like most Welshmen, Professor Ann Sumner was presented by Professor Robert Meyrick, Head of the School of Art and Keeper of Art on Tuesday 17 July 2018. commencing in Preston in 1963, and finishing in Plymouth with fresh eyes and to understand all that the artist is striving I love talking!”) – he is familiar both as a broadcaster and almost exactly three years later. There are some interesting to convey. If you do this, we believe you will learn something for his monthly column in the Methodist Recorder. Lord observations on the prevailing ‘contemporary art scene’ of the new about our Lord. Griffiths sits as a Labour Peer in the House of Lords. time, yet the mission statement as to the role of the Collection We have no doubt that there are many lamentable gaps The Collection will, shortly, be crossing the sea again remains essentially unchanged today… I wonder if any current in our Collection (Still the case today although, thankfully, to be enjoyed by our European neighbour, the Republic Friends can recall viewing the works at any of the numerous rather fewer! Ed.). Some great works of art we could have of Ireland, showing for some five weeks at the Royal exhibition sites? Friends will also be interested to know that secured only a few years ago have now found a home in Hibernian Academy, Dublin. there will be available, before Christmas, a new, updated galleries and churches. For there is, indeed, a new and I am delighted to say that I shall continue in post, in a edition of ‘A Guide to the Methodist Modern Art Collection favourable wind blowing – witness the Cathedrals at Llandaff non-executive role, as Newsletter Editor for a little while yet! for which our new Chair, Ann Sumner, has written an and , where great modern works of art draw and appropriate Foreword. inspire more worshippers than many of our sermons and This Collection of contemporary paintings on Christian much of our music. Some critics may think we have included

Art Collection Management Committee Members Prof Ann Sumner being congratulated, on receiving themes has been made possible by the generosity of a too few non-figurative paintings but this is not for want Prof. Ann Sumner (Chair), Graham Kent (Secretary), her Fellowship, by University Chancellor, the Rt Hon. Ian Baker (Secretary, Friends Group), Sarah Methodist layman concerned to do something to bridge the of trying to find suitable works. It may well be that the Middleton, Revd Ruth Gee, Rebecca Gibbs, Lucy Lord Thomas of Cwmgiedd. Photo supplied gulf that has existed for centuries in this country between Cleeve, Simon Sorokos Christian religion, essentially historical and incarnational- the artist and the Church. Making the Collection has been “the Word was made flesh”- is not properly expressed in Acting Administrator – Liz Millard email: [email protected] an exciting and inspiring task, meeting so many artists whose abstract art. We were on the point of taking our courage in Phone: 020 7467 5214 A STRATEGIC REVIEW OF THE WORKINGS OF THE COLLECTION attitude to our project was marked by humility and integrity; Custodian – Dr Peter Forsaith both hands and commissioning a painting in the life of , email: [email protected] It was felt that the appointment of a new Chair of the Management but it has been a difficult one, for there is, indeed a gulf. Few say the Sermon on the Mount or the Marriage at Cana, by a Committee would prove an opportune moment to launch a full, strategic www.methodist.org.uk/artcollection view of our modus operandi to be undertaken by two professional front-ranking contemporary artists seem to be interested in young ‘pop’ artist, when our time was up. In their sometimes consultants experienced in the field. Such a review should incorporate overtly religious themes, though they might well rise to them, trivial work we may see the beginnings of a return to a serious Friends of the Methodist Modern Art Collection both Governance and Practice and be undertaken by someone (The Supporters of the who understands the practical issues around the Collection’s care, were they to receive commissions, as we hope they will, from figurative art for the nineteen sixties. Perhaps we can add to Methodist Modern Art Collection) conservation and security. The review would reflect the professionalism some of our churches. Most popular religious art, whether in the collective works as they go on their two-year tour. To turn Patrons: The President of Conference, The Very Revd of the Methodist Modern Art Collection Management Committee Nick Bury, Phil Allison in respect of its responsibility for the Collection. This review is now Roman Catholic churches or Methodist school rooms and to a very different kind of work, we have every hope that Mr. under way with registrar, Chezzy Brownen, appointed to undertake Ian Baker vestries seems to be deplorably bad. We firmly believe that the Graham Sutherland will have a painting ready for us before the practice review, and Professor Mike Tooby, of Bath Spa University, Secretary to the Friends of the Collection greatest of all themes deserves the finest artistic expression, the exhibition has reached half way. Montrose, Brockhill Rd., Colwall, Herefords, WR13 to carry out the governance review. There will be a full report on the 6EX outcome in the Spring 2019 Newsletter. and hope this exhibition will indeed bring church and artist It will be apparent that there is nothing Phone: 01684 540477 [email protected] closer together to the advantage of both. ‘denominational’ about this exhibition, and we hope it will

Bob Williams These paintings may not be like some of your favourite bring pleasure and stimulus and inspiration to our fellow- Newsletter Editor pictures of Jesus, but are not many of the more popular Christians in all the Churches, and to many other visitors Phone: 01225 720188 [email protected] representations merely negative in character? We do not who do not go to Church at all.

Produced by Cultureshock Media expect everyone to like all these paintings, but we hope you Art Director: Alfonso Iacurci Front Cover: Sculptor Peter Eugene Designer: Luke Smith Ball with one of his recent works. www.cultureshockmedia.co.uk Photo: Jane Warner Newsletter 20 — Autumn 2018 3 Lord Leslie Griffiths of Burry Port in focus Lord Griffiths’ choice

By any standards, mine has been an unusual life. I was born to express these depths through art – their painting carries and raised in Burry Port, a small town in Carmarthenshire their sense of wonder and joy. I saw art at work, releasing that nestles by the fishing-boat-bobbing sea half way between submerged and suppressed energies as it liberated the soul to where the poet Dylan Thomas was born and where he lies soar. It was certainly much more than mere aestheticism. buried. Poetry was my first love – all those words so carefully My ministry has been in or around London since our polished and lovingly put together, like colours on an artist’s return in 1980 – I’ve served eight circuits and we’ve lived in palette ready to be turned into pictures, capable of wafting thirteen manses. Our 21 years at Wesley’s Chapel were so us into other worlds, heightening our awareness of realities fulfilling – it was a source of great joy that a liberal, open, beyond and beneath questioning, pastoral the reach of our senses. ministry (“wishy washy” From my earliest years, to some of course) despite growing up in saw our membership one room in a brickyard, rise from 204 to 460. with no books around I am a preacher and a Sadao Watanabe (1913-96), Christ enters me and sometimes no broadcaster. I expect my Jerusalem, 1982. Print idea where the next words to paint pictures, meal was coming from, to conjure up images, to I somehow found myself convey colour and shape. Father Bruno Healey is a dear friend, a Roman Catholic My reason for choosing it here is that I had the captivated by words, their Since my retirement, priest, who has followed his vocation to be a hermit. He lives pleasure of seeing it on my office wall for almost a year as colours and shapes, their I’ve found myself in a in seclusion in North Wales and our occasional meetings are we awaited the finalising of the deal that would take it into stories and energies, their new role. I’m Opposition filled with joy. To sit with him at Mass is such an eye-opening the Methodist Collection. A whole year of its company. It personalities too. Spokesperson (in the and heart-lifting experience. We may have different views continued to draw my attention, to ask questions of me, to My education House of Lords) for about the way bread and wine become the body and blood of fill me with delight and to drive me into contemplative mode, opened so many doors Digital, Culture, Media Christ but we both agree that this simple liturgical act turns right to the end. for me. Degrees from Lord Griffiths (Far L) seen here at the Opening of the ’Picturing Faith’ and Sport and also time and space into something well beyond either of them. Indeed, I handed the picture over to the Trustees of the exhibition, in Canterbury, in January 2017; one of a number of such events the universities of that he has graced with his presence over the years. Photo: Martin Cox Shadow Minister for When Bruno ended his parish ministry, he left a number Methodist Modern Art Collection with some resentment. Wales, Cambridge and Wales. To sit down from of artefacts and paintings to our Methodist collection at This picture had become my friend. It had to be torn from London came in due one’s ministry and then Wesley’s Chapel. One of them, Christ enters Jerusalem by the me. Whenever I see the Collection on show now, I invariably course. Fellowships and become a Minister has Japanese artist Sadao Watanabe, is a particular favourite. I head for this Japanese masterpiece and greet it warmly and honorary doctorates, baubles and titles too – arrived in a brought a strange twist to the story of my life. I’m loving it. could explain my affection for this picture by describing the with great affection. And I offer it my sympathy too. When steady succession. Margaret and I are in the fiftieth year of our marriage. materials and the processes employed by the artist – they it hung on my office wall it greeted me in all its innocent In 1970, recently married to Margaret, we found She is a truly extraordinary woman. Our three children – leave a result that looks so fresh and (almost) ‘home made’. beauty. Now it's been framed and I'm not at all sure it looks ourselves heading for Haiti, the experience above all others Tim, Jon and Ruth – have become our best friends as, indeed, Or the overall impression – the picture carries a riot of detail happy in its new dark green apparel. But that probably says that changed my life and opened my mind to the power of have their spouses – Dru, Susanna, Bunna, Judith and Nico with branches and garments strewn along the way, a doleful more about my philistinism than anything else. Or my visual art as a tool for living. Haitians have been famously (yes, two of them have been married twice!). And, to cap it donkey and some unexpected birds, Zacchaeus perched jealousy perhaps - I really didn't want to let it out of my sight. described as “les miséreux de la terre” – the wretched of the all, we’ve been blessed with two grandchildren – Tammy anachronistically on a very delicate branch, and the figure Ah well! I hope it brings the same joy to others as it brought earth. That may be true as a description of their physical and Thomas. of Jesus set on facing down his enemies and facing up to the to me." circumstances but it doesn’t touch the qualities of their supreme challenge of his life. It’s an arresting picture full of innermost selves. I stood in awe of the way they seemed able — Deo Gratia colour and life.

4 Friends of the Methodist Modern Art Collection Newsletter 20 — Autumn 2018 5 AWAKENING GAMECHANGER Church, Douglas, by the island’s Six Methodist, URC and Anglican I was particularly pleased to see Cromer, Norfolk Lieutenant-Governor, Sir Richard venues in the Isle of Man the Collection so innovatively displayed 6-17 August, 2018 Gozney. Those present included 13 May-17 June, 2018 across five venues when I visited for community leaders, musicians – and the dismount of the works. Reading cruise ship visitors! A young local the lesson at the final evensong at Peel ‘Some of the images ‘Astonishing how, on composer, Tim Price, produced a Cathedral surrounded by the Collection powerful piece of music inspired by was a memorable moment and seeing the make me feel urghh, a 2D surface you get a Richard Bavin’s The Empty Tomb. display at the charming rural Methodist Other main venues were the newly Chapel at Ballagarey was truly inspiring. others make me feel 3D story!’ refurbished Methodist Church at Colby, Undoubtedly attending the Local the Methodist Church at Ramsey, and Preachers evening meeting was a highlight ahhh!!’ Four years ago, at Ellesmere Port, my Peel Cathedral. Two paintings formed of my visit too, and hearing there of the wife and I first set eyes on the Methodist part of a quiet space in the United real impact the Collection had made on Over the last five years the Community Modern Art Collection and were Reformed Church in Douglas, near the island. Huge thanks in particular to Matters Cafe that operates out of instantly convinced that we should the TT grandstand, and two others Petrina, Mary & Henry who were such Cromer Methodist Church has served move to bring it to the Isle of Man. were displayed at a rural Methodist dedicated curators and to John Binns for more than 14,500 bacon butties and two With the circuit firmly behind the Chapel, Ballagarey. his involvement. course meals to the homeless, lonely and project, and support from the Anglican Welcomers were on hand at each financially stretched. In addition to the diocese, it was agreed to do so at a time venue. Among the comments, lodged — Prof. Ann Sumner gift of good food, visitors to the cafe are which would include the TT fortnight in the Visitors’ Books, were… ‘Am a ze d , offered friendship, signposting to other in May/June, when the island’s challenged, in awe - but blessed’; agencies and practical support. This population of 85,000 swells by 40,000 ‘Astonishing how, on a 2D surface you project was the inspiration for arranging (and 12,000 motorbikes!), with visitors get a 3D story’; ‘Thank you for the for a number of works from the from many parts of the world. This opportunity to see Jesus in a different way’. Methodist Modern Art Collection to be Game Changer Exhibition poster presented a unique opportunity to share As well as the opportunity to exhibited both in the church and cafe. I the Christian story with a wider public. worship in what became an ‘art space’ chose the title 'Gamechanger' to reflect We felt it appropriate to divide at each venue, a wide range of special the engagements that the volunteers in Art' with Ros Peedle and 'Burra and We are indebted to the the Collection among four main events were organised on a local basis. have with cafe clients, with many of the the pool of Bethesda' which I led. Many Management Committee of the venues where the use of multiple They ranged from a manga drawing chosen works relating to the stories of people found Burra's work difficult to Collection, the North Norfolk locations would facilitate much wider workshop (a genre for the Collection’s life changing encounters that Jesus had like but all agreed it transfixed them Methodist Circuit, Chris Hamilton- involvement and support. Our three managers to consider?), through ‘artist with folk on the fringes of society. I also so an enquiry into the man seemed Emery of Salt Publishing, our professional curators, Mary Gulland, in residence’ days and musical recitals, to felt that the title would draw a broader appropriate. And what an interesting discussion leaders and the 55 tireless Henry Uniacke and Petrina Kent a festal evensong on the first Sunday at spectrum of interest than simply the man he turned out to be; so talented exhibition volunteers. assigned artworks to each venue, Peel Cathedral, with the Rev. Graham Church when one considers that the despite his physical incapacities. One - Revd Sharon Willimott, acknowledging special requests for Kent preaching. We welcomed some introduction of the Christian faith was observer wondered if Burra heard the Superintendent Minister. particular works. 5,000 visitors, including a few school the greatest 'Gamechanger' in human Bible story and rejected the question It was indeed very clear that it Preparation and raising awareness groups, over the five-week period. Many history, whether one is a believer or not! from Jesus 'Do you want to be healed?' was the Community Matters Cafe was key. A training day for leaders and had no connection with a church. We purposely sited works to offer More than 700 people visited the venture that inspired the North Norfolk others gave Methodist Modern Art It is too soon for a comprehensive a Christian narrative from the Dalit exhibition - from as far as Holland, Methodist Circuit to borrow a selection Collection Management Committee assessment of what the benefits have Madonna through to Brokenshire's Paris and Gravesend - as did those of pictures from the Methodist Modern member, Sarah Middleton, an been, but it has certainly helped to turn Untitled (Pentecost) and chose works of who regularly attend the Cafe. I was Art Collection and to choose those that opportunity to speak about using the the minds of a number of us towards service and support, such as Howard's delighted that our choices prompted clearly reflected some of the life changing Collection in worship and how best to our calling to share in God’s mission. The Washing of the Feet and Reilly's and many deep and wonderful conversations encounters with Jesus by those on the focus upon the Creative Spirit resource. Local preachers and worship leaders Clarke's differing interpretations of the between people of faith and of none, fringes of society. The exhibition continued A local radio station ran regular reports have testified to the impact that the feeding of the five thousand, to show which clearly demonstrated the the long tradition of inspiring titles by and interviews during the months exhibition made on them. (One member in the Community Cafe itself. We had Collection’s aim of inspiring and calling it ‘Gamechanger’ and with subtle leading up to the exhibition, and a of the Steering Committee described it three fabulous acts of worship, including enabling encounters with Christ nuance in World Cup year. I made two series of ‘Pause for Thought’ interludes, as the most exciting thing to happen to the admission of a local preacher through image. One local artist said visits in the first week and was impressed during the exhibition, in which him in sixty years of being a Methodist!) where we related the entirely subjective "This is the first serious art exhibition I with the warm welcome offered by their several Steering Committee members We feel that we should now explore production of a painting to the equally have seen in the twenty years I have lived stewards. All involved deserve our thanks spoke about a work which they found further ways in which we might use (From top) Methodist Art Exhibition Flyer; personal, but Spirit led, art of preaching. in Cromer" but perhaps my favourite and congratulations. particularly meaningful. the arts to communicate the Christian The Manx ‘Hanging and Dismount’ team hard There were also three equally stirring comment was made from one elderly at work. From left to right, Henry Uniacke, — Ian Baker, Management The exhibition was formally story. Who knows what might result…? Christopher Stokes, Mary Gulland, Kenny evening conversations: 'Let's talk about visitor "Some of the images make me feel opened, at Promenade Methodist - Tim Grass Stokes and Petrina Kent. Photo: John Gulland religious art' with Phil Barratt, 'Miracles urghh, others make me feel ahhh"! Committee member

6 Friends of the Methodist Modern Art Collection Newsletter 20 — Autumn 2018 7 EXPERIENCING RESURRECTION For him there always has to be a Three other works in the exhibition St. Giles’ Church, Oxford ELSEWHERE IN THE ART WORLD presence, invariably in the form of a caught the eye – The Touch, in a triptych 14 April – 20 May 2018 light source: the radiant light of God. format, illustrating various noli me His small painting, The Empty Tomb, tangere moments, and a beautifully lit which echoes the title of his talk, sculpture – The Entombment of Christ, ‘There was no such features the rising sun illuminating revealing the clear wound marks on the thing as an empty the tomb, bathing it in early morning one visible hand and foot. It seemed to CHARLES I, KING AND sunlight. Thus, not empty at all. In suggest that the viewer is also positioned COLLECTOR times the amount paid to Michelangelo very striking work, painted in 1656, tomb…’ his painting, Angels at the Tomb, we in the sepulchre, looking out. Finally, The Royal Academy for the decoration of the Sistine Chapel by Laurent de La Hyre, then I would see a similar dramatic effect, where a brilliantly composed The Walk to 27 January – 15 April, 2018 ceiling!). For the next century the encourage you to do so. Veronese’s 1528 It was well worth making the journey two angels, themselves, generate Emmaus with its enclosing curves cartoons were passed around weavers painting of the same subject is another over to Oxford, on 26 April, both to an immensely strong light source. portrayed through the strong hands The ‘Charles I, King & Collector’ show, workshops in Brussels. In 1623 Charles masterpiece. The Titian (1488-1576), hear Nick Mynheer’s illustrated talk Hans Holbein the Younger’s Noli me of the, as yet, unrecognized figure of with its myriad treasures, primarily I, avidly in pursuit of the best of probably the most highly valued work entitled ‘The Empty Tomb’ and view tangere, mentioned in the report on Christ – and in the roadside trees was, from the Northern and Italian European art, discovered seven of the in Charles’ Royal Collection, with its a selection of his works displayed ‘Charles I, King and Collector’, has a for me, the star work of the show. Renaissance, will certainly prove to cartoons in Genoa and bought them, focus on Christ revealing his identity, to around the walls of St.Giles. This similar marked emphasis; the interior One can clearly understand where be one of the exhibitions of the year. as a job lot, for £300. James I had two of his followers, at mealtime, clearly small exhibition also included works of the tomb radiates an ethereal light, Nick, the artist, comes from when he What a Collection, all notionally in established England’s first Tapestry echoes the composition of Leonardo da by Anglican Priest/ artist, Robert revealing two angels blanched by the says – ‘I am not a biblical illustrator; I the ownership of one man! Titian, Workshop in 1619 which in turn led to Vinci’s celebrated Last Supper, showing Wright (who featured in the 2013 sheer intensity of the light. respond to Scripture’. Mantegna, The Younger Holbein, Charles commissioning his own set of Christ blessing the Elements. Again, ‘Risen’ exhibition at Piano Nobile and Nick also shared with us the very Brueghel the Elder, Tintoretto, tapestries from the Rubens cartoons. among many contenders, probably only Monnow Valley Arts), and one work personal view that working on his — The Editor Gentileschi, Giovane, Bernini and, of The cartoons came to be regarded as rivalled by Caravaggio’s wonderful 1601 loaned from the Eularia Clarke Trust. own version of The Empty Tomb had course, those ‘twin giants’ Peter Paul valuable works of art in their own right. composition, in the National Gallery. Nick set us all thinking by proved particularly challenging, taking Rubens and Court Painter Anthony William III had them displayed in a proclaiming that, in his view, there him longer to complete than any other Van Dyck, taken together, formed specially designed gallery at Hampton — The Editor was no such thing as an ‘empty’ tomb. recent work. an impressive archive by anybody’s Court Palace. They finally ended up, on standards. Its acquisition, dissolution Queen Victoria’s instruction in 1865, at and reassembly, for the purpose of this, the Victoria and Albert Museum, where unique exhibition is a remarkable story they are still housed today. in itself. Seen from the stance of devotees of Unsurprisingly, the exhibition the Methodist Modern Art Collection featured a wide range of both secular it is always of interest to remind and religious works. Among the ourselves how some of the major artists latter, familiar New Testament from the Classical Era approached events, re-told by the skilled, painterly the key Gospel Stories. Have their hands, represented in Charles’ Royal paintings, in whatever way, influenced Collection, included Giovane’s (1548- contemporary interpretation of those 1628) particularly dramatic Conversion same, well-known events – i.e. our of St. Paul c.1590-95, from the Prado, works by Roy de Maistre and Ceri hung here as a companion piece with the Richards? The R.A. exhibition featured rather graphic Triumph of David (over two such works by giants of both the Goliath). Also on view were four, from a Northern and Italian Renaissance: series of ten, of the Mortlake Tapestries: Noli me tangere 1526-28, by Hans Miraculous Draught of Fishes, Death Holbein The Younger, and Titian’s of Ananias, The Blinding of Elymas Supper at Emmaus c.1534. Holbein and the Sacrifice at Lystra – all woven (c1497-1543) gave us a fine composition, between 1630-1641, based on designs in brilliant colours… Calvary in the Nick Mynheer, The Entombment of Christ by Raphael. The history of the cartoons middle distance, off left, and a fully is an interesting one. Originally illuminated tomb, bottom right, lead The Walk to Emmaus, Nick Mynheer (b.1958). commissioned by Pope Leo X, in 1513, the eye into centre stage where a suitably as designs for a cycle of tapestries, startled Mary forms the main focus actually woven in Flanders, and set to together with Christ gesturing her to embellish the lower walls of the Sistine keep her distance. If you have never Chapel; an expensive exercise in itself previously had reason to compare this (costing the Vatican more than five painting with a remarkably similar and

8 Friends of the Methodist Modern Art Collection Newsletter 20 — Autumn 2018 9 GRAINS OF TRUTH friend and follower of Paulo Freire. For setting. While working at the Bromley- Moore’s own praxis evolved, through an Beyond’ (2012), and the titles hint at the to the exhibition are invited to seek Victoria Methodist Church, him, as for Chile, everything changed by-Bow Centre, Tower Hamlets, Bell, apprenticeship to Bell, into working on challenges they threw down. out the reminders in Moore’s work Whiteladies Rd, Bristol with the 1973 CIA-backed coup that a Christian Socialist, influenced many, polychrome carvings in collaboration ‘Grains of Truth’, a thought- of, for example, burnings at the stake, 4 - 29 June, 2018 ousted Allende and ushered in Augusto including the Revd. David Moore, the with illustrator/ scientist/ artist Richard provoking title itself, evokes various the Chilcot Report and the outrages David Moore/ Richard Smith/ Pinochet’s reign of terror. Methodist Minister stationed nearby at Smith. In the convention of painted levels of response and picks up several perpetrated at Abu Gharib. Santiago Bell 1932-2005/ Angela Bell (1932-2005) was among the the Bow Mission. Moore has said that carvings, ‘Smith ‘n’ Moore’ have created themes from Moore’s earlier exhibitions. At one point during his Sunday Dewar & Arun Weys… many thousands detained. He was held he only went along to Bell’s first session a series of striking works, some of which In curating it, he has brought together afternoon reflection, Moore remarked in solitary confinement and tortured because he was afraid there would engage with the magic realism of the work by, for example, Arun Weys and on the earthiness that, he thought, until, partly thanks to Amnesty be an empty room if he wasn’t there! New Testament while others reach Angela Dewar, and offers the visitor a Chilean artists acknowledged more ‘Moore has matured International and to his Scottish Attending the class gave a new direction out to comment on contemporary chance to ‘catch up’ with, or ‘nail down’, easily than British Methodists. The over the years in an ancestry, he was released and able to to his ministry. political issues. the pervasive influence of Dietrich ’earthy’ element in the work on show join other Chilean intellectuals in exile. Speaking to members of the The exhibition includes carvings Bonhoeffer. The exhibition includes four has elicited knee-jerk reactions and atmosphere in which Many others were not so fortunate. congregation after the service at that will undoubtedly shock some pieces directly linked to the German there are some who would like to After initially settling in Cambridge, Victoria Methodist Church on Sunday among the membership of Victoria. theologian whose writing provides a follow Pope Innocent X in placing it is necessary to speak Bell left what he considered sterile the 2 June, Moore informed us that being Methodist congregations are used dialogue with the work and whose spirit fig leaves over whatever they consider truth… both unto banks of the River Cam for London, taught to carve by Bell had ‘opened his finding inspiration in the life that eyes’. What he came to see is apparent power and unto the flowed through Limehouse and the from the work on show and, since he Isle of Dogs. For nearly a decade, he himself curated it, in the ‘Grains of complacent.’ offered multipurpose art workshops in Truth’ exhibition as a whole. Now a Tower Hamlets as part of an innovative supernumerary, Moore has exercised Santiago Bell makes powerful political recovery programme. In his ‘spare a remarkable ministry in wood and, statements in the Grains of Truth time’, he explored his experiences under more generally, through inviting the exhibition that was showing at Victoria the boot of the Pinochet regime. His Methodist Church to recognise how Methodist Church, Bristol over the powerful Anonymous Prisoner - or it can speak through the arts. Using month of June this year. Anonymous Hostage, as it is identified skills acquired in his maturity and Santiago Bell? A Chilean artist, at Victoria - and his Torture Chair are realised in a triptych, Jonah, Moore whose name indicates his Spanish just two of the works on display that tells the story of his journey as a and Scottish heritage, was a regional grew out of this engagement. Both Methodist minister and embodies the

‘steward’ under Salvador Allende, and make strong statements in the Bristol narrative in a solid but legible form. Old friends David Moore and Sarah Middleton, at the Exhibition Photo: Jane Stacey

to listening quietly to white-haired pervades the space. The exhibition is full obscene or unfit for public display. ministers in pulpits, and not used to of acts of resistance, some thunderous, However, as Bonhoeffer, Bell and Moore being confronted with ideas expressed some witty, some subversive. In other remind us, the real obscenities are acts in the physicality of wood. Especially words, ‘spokes of various designs are of cruelty, suppression, exploitation when it is clear, that, the wood has been jammed into wheels of different sizes’. and inhumanity and there are not through the hands of a carver whose The conviction that art has a role enough fig leaves in the world to cover eyes are open to the world and who in society and that a Christian has those. Bell, an artist in his ‘spare has learned to see life steadily and see an obligation to engage in political time’, spoke out against the removal it whole. Moore has matured over the activity can be followed through from and reverent seclusion of art from years in an atmosphere in which it is work to work, and artist to artist. the world. He hoped that exhibitions necessary to speak truth… both unto Underpinning all is the writing of the of his work would be ‘events’, and power and unto the complacent; he has German opponent of Nazism, and first handed down instructions to visitors moved beyond being squeamish and among equals, is the Chilean teacher/ that included: Don’t stare, demand beyond what he would regard as false artist who responded creatively to explanations, engage in conversation, modesty. While exercising his new Pinochet’s reign of terror. Bonhoeffer take photographs, have a cup of tea, ministry in wood, in London, Moore and Bell were clearly brothers under and discover the solidarity of having curated a number of exhibitions. Major the skin, and Moore himself makes a opinions. These remarkable sermons in ones include ‘Resisting Tyranny’ (for third, committed artist, prepared to wood are accessible for most of June.

Santiago Bell’s Jesus in the Church David Moore’s Mary Magdalene as a witness Santiago Bell’s Anonymous Prisoner the Bonhoeffer anniversary, 2006), challenge through making challenging to the Resurrection ‘Torture and Mutilation’, and ‘Reaching allusions. To see how this works, visitors — James Gibbs

10 Friends of the Methodist Modern Art Collection Newsletter 20 — Autumn 2018 11 GRAHAM SUTHERLAND: BENEATH THE TAPESTRY The symbol of The Good Shepherd is, Our 1947 oil painting, The CERI RICHARDS: LIVERPOOL Coventry Cathedral of course, widely to be found in early deposition might, indeed, have further 29 June – 4 August, 2018 Christian sculpture and in inscriptions, enhanced this unique coming together notably in the Roman catacombs, which of significant images of key moments in METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL This interesting little exhibition opened had a profound influence on the style of salvation history. with a talk by Ben Quash, Professor lettering adopted by Beyer. It is interesting to trace other of Christianity and the Arts, in the The recent exhibition, ‘Graham influences which might well have department of Theology and Religious Sutherland: Beneath the Tapestry’ gave played on Sutherland’s imagination Studies, Kings College, London. rightful prominence to the foremost of as he worked on both paintings Those of you familiar with Sir Basil Spence’s artists. In 1944, Sutherland and the tapestry: Picasso’s 1932 Spence’s Coventry Cathedral will know took what was the first step towards Crucifixion drawings (in turn that he sought out several high-profile ‘creating a Crucifixion of a significant inspired by the Grunewald Isenheim artists of the time whose works he felt size’ when he started work on a painting Altarpiece, in Colmar – and also on would both complement, and be an for Walter Hussey, the then vicar of St. paintings executed by his friend and integral part of the fabric for the new Matthew’s, Northampton. That same contemporary, Francis Bacon). How Cathedral. We, of course, have our own painting, completed in 1946, joined the often, in the history of art, we see small link with this initiative in that famous tapestry, Christ in Glory in the such a ‘nod of respect’ for what has the Collection features a Ralph Beyer Tetramorph in the Lady Chapel, with gone before… pencil drawing of 1961, The son of man the exhibition further enhanced by is come, commissioned by Basil Spence the loan of the artist’s Noli Me Tangere — The Editor for one of eight large stone blocks – The (also a later Hussey commission) Tablets of the Word – placed around the from Chichester Cathedral. There nave walls of the Cathedral Church of were, in addition, three large, St. Michael. Beyer persuaded Spence to preparatory cartoons for the Tapestry accept texts in freely composed lettering, Commission and various studies from The reredos and tabernacle, Blessed Sacrament Chapel, Liverpool Metropolitan with no two letters being identical. private collections. Cathedral. Photo: John Gibbs.

Completed in 1967, Liverpool’s which produced a further stunning tabernacle, together with Richards’ Catholic Cathedral – the Metropolitan stained glass installation– in the tower triangular stained glass windows, which Cathedral of Christ the King has, of the Metropolitan Cathedral). Also to so effectively illuminate the Chapel, over the years, attracted a degree of be seen is an altar crucifix by Elisabeth were conceived as a single triptych, good-natured ribbing for what in the Frink and a delightful small statue, The abstractly flowing one into another. 1960s has to be described as its bold and Risen Christ, by the late Arthur Dooley Ceri Richards, a prize winner at challenging architecture. Its citizens, (1929-94). Dooley was an interesting the 1962 Venice Biennale, was an artist many of Liverpool Irish descent and character. A native of Liverpool, a who experimented with the challenges employing typical dry humour, fondly Catholic and a card carrying member of presented by Surrealism, Cubism and refer to it as ‘Paddy’s Wigwam’ or ‘The the Communist Party, he has work in Abstraction who also found inspiration Mersey Funnel’. both Liverpool’s cathedrals, the Walker in subject matter that derived from For those with more than a passing Art Gallery and, interestingly enough, both a love of poetry and music. He interest in contemporary religious art, another sculpture, The Resurrection of produced a body of work clearly inspired it is a venue of some interest. Our newly Christ on the exterior walls of Prince’s by Dylan Thomas. Similarly, his series retired Chair, Dr John Gibbs, has very St. Methodist Church, Toxteth. This is a of paintings of sunken cities reference recently visited the Cathedral and was metal and fibreglass construction dating Debussy’s musical compositions. And, greatly taken with Ceri Richards’ work from 1969 and recently renovated. The of course, we are privileged to have, in there and kindly supplies the featured sculpture caused something of a local the Methodist Modern Art Collection, photograph. ‘Well worth a visit to view, storm back in the ‘60s as it was a Black his lovely working drawing (for the St. if you happen to be in Liverpool’ is Christ that Dooley chose to depict. Edmund Hall, Oxford, altarpiece), The his advice! However, it is the reredos and Supper at Emmaus, 1958. You will find, within its walls, tabernacle, 1966, in the Blessed work by John Piper CH (another Sacrament Chapel of the Cathedral, — The Editor partnership, much as in Coventry’s by Ceri Richards CBE., (1903-71) that Ralph Beyer (1921-2008), The son of man is come, 1961. Pencil Cathedral, with Patrick Reyntiens, really catch the eye. The reredos and

12 Friends of the Methodist Modern Art Collection Newsletter 20 — Autumn 2018 13 HOMELESS JESUS PETER EUGENE BALL – SCULPTOR

‘If Peter Ball, the most cheerfully down-to- earth of men, is at all mystified by the way his career has developed, he would do well to remember that God has a sense of humour’.

Peter Eugene Ball (b.1943) has to be regarded as one of the major figures,

in the world of contemporary religious Two of Peter Eugene Ball’s recent art, in the late 20th/early 21st Century. works seen at Romsey Abbey: On the left, Romsey Madonna and, on A lifelong passion for Celtic and the right, Standing Madonna. Romanesque carvings clearly shows Photo: Jane Warner through in his own work. He has, Bronze of Homeless Jesus. Photo: Dave Ellison, Alamy Images this October, just been the subject of a major exhibition in Romsey Abbey, which presented the latest collection of his wide ranging sculptural output, A bronze of Homeless Jesus was installed Minister of the Manchester Circuit, entire proceeds, from his forthcoming the culmination of two years’ work, recycled bits of timber his preferred radar when I stumbled across his Blessed and unveiled on 24 April, 2018, outside offered the thought that… ‘This sculpture long service Testimonial Match, to in a beautifully presented exhibition. material, often partly covered in Virgin and Child, 1997, in Holy Trinity, St. Ann’s Church in Manchester is a tangible reminder that the work goes the Mayor’s Greater Manchester Images of women featured strongly in copper or pewter, embellished with Blythburgh (‘The Cathedral of the City Centre. on towards the day when there are no Homelessness Fund; a fine gesture from this show, reflecting both the place and silver or gold leaf. A quote from that Marshes’), in Suffolk. The bronze by the Canadian longer homeless people in this city. an admired member of a profession so legacy of women in the history of the eminent Medieval Art Historian, the His works can be seen, amongst sculptor, Timothy Schmalz, depicts a But, until then, this sculpture often maligned as money grabbing. Church and the arts and the fact that St. late Dr Pamela Tudor-Craig, sums others, in the Cathedrals in Portsmouth, figure lying asleep on a park bench. Its will serve as a tangible reminder that, Bronze casts of this near life-size Ethelflaeda is one of the Patron Saints of up the character of this sculptor very Lichfield, Derby, and pierced feet indicate that it is, indeed, among them, we find Jesus’. Church sculpture have been installed in cities Romsey Abbey. succinctly: ‘If Peter Ball, the most , where there are no Jesus. Also, this work fits well with the of England leaders hope that the around the world, including Toronto Ball has always enjoyed working cheerfully down-to-earth of men, is at fewer than four pieces in place – Pieta, tradition of encouraging the exposure of poignant symbol will challenge the and Glasgow but Manchester’s is on both sides of a clear divide, on the all mystified by the way his career has Light of the World, Ecce Homo and contemporary art in the city. public to reflect and act on Manchester’s the first in England. Readers may one hand, his religiously inspired pieces developed, he would do well to remember a very dramatic and well lit Christus At its unveiling, by Dave, one growing homelessness crisis. Rough recall that, two years ago, Methodist – resulting in commissions for over 70 that God has a sense of humour’. Rex. He is the subject of two books: ‘A of the City’s homeless inhabitants, sleeping in Manchester has increased Central Hall had a similar request installations,, completed over the past Peter Ball enjoyed his first one-man Kind of Madness’ by Inga Gilbert and the sculpture was blessed by the Rt by 40% in just 12 months. Thus it is surprisingly rejected. The intention 40 years, in cathedrals and churches show at the long gone Marjorie Parr ‘Icons of the Invisible God’ with an Revd David Walker, the Bishop of encouraging to read that Manchester’s had been to install a version outside the across England and Wales – and on the Gallery, in the Kings Rd., back in 1967. introduction by Richard Davey. I would Manchester, who reminded those Mayor, Andy Burnham, has recently church premises, facing the Houses of other, work of a secular nature. These (Marjorie ran two highly successful also strongly recommend a ten minute attending that ‘Jesus is very explicit in launched an appeal that aims to find a Parliament. The decision did not reflect latter pieces are invariably quirky and galleries, the London gallery for some film, on YouTube, in which the sculptor the Bible – when we offer or refuse care to bed, within the City, for every rough well on Westminster City Council. readily raise a smile, the result of his 12 years and, rather more briefly, talks in a wonderfully revealing manner those in need, we will be judged as though sleeper this winter. Supporting this experimenting with different materials, another in St. Ives). He has, over the about how his working life has evolved he himself were the needy person before initiative is Manchester City FC captain — The Editor often found objects directly associated years, exhibited extensively in the UK, over the years. us’. At its unveiling, the Revd Caroline and Belgian international, Vincent with his penchant for beachcombing. Holland, Germany, Switzerland and Wickens, the Methodist Superintendent Kompany. He will be donating the His sculpture is mainly figurative, with the USA. He first crossed my personal — The Editor

14 Friends of the Methodist Modern Art Collection Newsletter 20 — Autumn 2018 15 FORTHCOMING TOUR PROGRAMME FOR THE COLLECTION

2018 14 November - 21 December Royal Hibernian Academy Dublin Contact: Neil Payne, 00353 87 2557578 Email: [email protected]

By way of introducing interested parties to this forthcoming exhibition - ‘Faith and the Artist’ - there is, already posted, a comprehensive exhibition website; one of the very best of its kind. Well worth a look: methodistartdublin.ie

2019 29 April - 9 June (open to public Thurs 2 May - Sun 9 June) Leicester (5 venues inc. Cathedral and Launde Abbey) Contact: Bethany.Piggott@LecCofE. org (Also: Revd Fran Rhys fran.rhys@ methodist.org.uk )

(tbc) September/October 2019 Windermere, Cumbria Contact: Revd Martyn Coe, 01539 533223 We are delighted to give Friends a first sight of the Email: [email protected] cover to the newly revised edition of ‘A Guide to the Methodist Art Collection’, hot off the press! 2020 (tbc) 21 March - 19 April Bewdley, Worcestershire Contact: Jim Ineson, 01299 405645 Email: [email protected]

A THOUGHT TO LEAVE YOU WITH ‘Art class was like a religious ceremony. I would wash my hands carefully before touching paper

All images from the Collection used or pencils. The instruments of work were sacred here ©TMCP All photographs, The Editor, unless otherwise credited objects to me.’ —Joan Miró