Spring 2019 Newsletter £1.50 Where Sold Friends of the Methodist Modern Art Collection

NO.21 — SPRING 2019 NEWSLETTER £1.50 WHERE SOLD FRIENDS OF THE METHODIST MODERN ART COLLECTION

Our 2018 Governance and Practice Reviews Gareth Powell’s Tribute to Retiring Chair, Dr John Gibbs

TheNewsletter Collection 21 — Spring 2019 in Dublin 1 NO.21 — SPRING 2019

EDITORIAL Reflection and renewal: Dear Friend, “I always draw big; I attack the paper with large sweeping forms...” Firstly, as the recently retired Secretary to the Friends With Easter fast approaching it seems entirely appropriate that we Group, can I extend warm congratulations to my successor, feature our treasured Elisabeth Frink drawing, Pieta, on the Front Cover of this Spring edition of the Newsletter. responding to recent reviews Ian Baker. Ian has, over the past year or so, already made his mark within the ranks of the Management Committee As well as being one of the foremost British sculptors of the 20th Century, Frink was a prolific print maker (invariably in the form of and I know that he will represent Friends’ interests with lithographs). Her ability to create the essential line with a pencil – “I efficiency and genuine enthusiasm. The Newsletter will always draw big; I attack the paper with large sweeping forms” - and In the Spring of 2018 the Management Committee decided audiences have the opportunity to engage with it. unfussy, slightly washed out watercolours, often enhanced with ink, remain an effective conduit as Ian and I continue to work were very much a trade-mark. it was important to commission two reviews relating to the Thus far we have had three serious Expressions of closely together. This recent milestone provides us with the Her Times obituary summed up her lifetime’s work rather succinctly workings of the Collection, one concentrating on governance Interest as a new home for the Collection, each offering opportunity to reflect on the development of our Friends’ by noting that there were really three essential themes to her and the other on procedures and practice. Agreed at our May different strengths and we may well receive more. A careful oeuvre: the nature of Man; the "horseness" of horses; and the divine Group over its first decade - see P.11. in human form. Over a lifetime as a working artist she remained 2018 meeting in Oxford, this became the first task for me to process to find the most suitable home, with a support I am delighted to be able to confirm the addition of a immune to any contemporary movements. She possessed an inner take forward as the new Chair of the Committee, in July. structure for the Collection, will now be undertaken. The strength and unshakeable integrity in her art. Much of her early further eminent name to our body of Honorary Patrons, that output often had brutal undertones, a legacy of growing up in the Professor Mike Tooby of Bath Spa University, was cost of the conservation of the Collection is being met by of Lord Leslie Griffiths, the subject of our In Focus feature in War Years, compounded by living in France for seven years and appointed to carry out the governance review. Chezzy the Methodist Church, which is, of course, the owner of the being uncomfortably close to the fall-out from the Algerian War of our Autumn 2018 Newsletter. Independence. Over a working lifetime she made more than 400 Brownen, a consultant collections registrar with broad Collection, together with a donation from the Gibbs Trust. Following a well-received visit to Dublin the next sculptures – “I really set out to be a painter, but sculpture chose experience, was appointed to undertake the practice and We are grateful for the strong support from both sources. me!” - a great many reflecting her love of animals. A number of her opportunity to view will be in May and early June when the bronze pieces have been influenced by her Catholic upbringing and procedural review. A survey, of over half the Collection, Fundraising and applications to broader trusts will be key to works will be exhibited, under the title ‘Wondering Soul’, in can be found in ecclesiastical settings. The Altar Cross in Liverpool was carried out by expert conservators Ruth Bubb and our strategic thinking in the future. Leicester (details on P.16). Thereafter the Collection will be Metropolitan Cathedral, the Eagle Lectern at Coventry, the Walking Louise Vaile. Conservation and re-framing will be carried out Madonna at Salisbury are all fine examples. Her very last piece, taking a rejuvenation pause in the Tour Schedule while a full Risen Christ, positioned over the West Doors of Liverpool’s Anglican During the period of review, a further development during the nine-month pause in our touring programme. programme of conservation is undertaken. Thus Leicester Cathedral, worked on against fearful odds when she was terminally occurred in respect of our long term partner Oxford Brookes We also recognise this as a key opportunity, in the history ill (she died just seven days after the unveiling), proved the perfect will be the last opportunity for a little while to see the memorial. University. It became clear to us that the University would of the Collection, to reflect on our achievements – (the majority of the works on display. Do make the most of it. The Pieta: Should this work actually be considered a Pieta – or a not be in a position to provide the required gallery space and Collection was seen by over 30,000 people in 2018) - and to As mentioned in the Autumn 2018 edition of the Deposition?... Some folk would prefer to see it termed a Deposition but improved storage, long term, on their Westminster Campus. set out a clear, new Five Year Plan. When we re-launch the Frink herself was adamant that, as there is no visual evidence in the Newsletter, the in-depth Governance and Practice Reviews drawing of Christ being lifted down from the cross, this drawing should This has resulted in the search for a new, permanent home Collection it will be in the very best of conditions, many regarding the management of the Collection have been not be termed a Deposition. Similarly, she maintained that a Pieta for the Collection becoming a priority. Last autumn the full works being transformed by surface cleaning and other image did not necessarily have to have a representation of the Virgin undertaken and an appropriate summary of findings appears Mary to be so titled. Management Committee met in Bristol for an inspiring interventions, with strong, suitable frames fit for the demands on P.3. Visioning Away Day both to give consideration to this issue – The Editor of regular touring. and thought to our future ambitions. Please do try to come and see the Collection while it is Having received the recommendations of both in Leicester this May and enjoy the thoughtful programme

Art Collection Management Committee Members reviews, the Committee decided to prioritise the immediate of events being planned by the host team. During this pause Prof. Ann Sumner (Chair), Dr John Gibbs, Revd Graham Kent, care issues highlighted in the practice report. In short, period the Friends Newsletter will keep you up to date with Ian Baker (Secretary, Friends Group), Sarah Middleton, Revd Ruth Gee, Rebecca Gibbs, Lucy Cleeve, Simon Sorokos the condition of some paintings had raised concerns; developments. We do intend to develop a series of Friends

Acting Administrator – Liz Millard likewise frames and travelling cases. Thus a programme of events over the coming years and we hope to hold one in the email: [email protected] conservation work has begun already - thanks to funding autumn. Further information on this will be provided once Phone: 020 7467 5214 Custodian – Dr Peter Forsaith from the Gibbs Trust. all the details are finalised. email: [email protected] With the above-mentioned developments in mind, We would like to acknowledge our long partnership www.methodist.org.uk/artcollection from June onwards the entire Collection will be brought with Oxford Brookes University and thank colleagues

Friends of the Methodist Modern Art Collection together in high quality, commercial storage where the there, especially our Custodian, Peter Forsaith for his (The Supporters of the Methodist Modern Art Collection) remainder of the works can be fully condition-surveyed. dedicated service. We look forward to this time of reflection Patrons: The President of Conference, The Very Revd Nick Bury, Phil Allison, Lord Leslie Griffiths of Burry Port In order for this work to be carried out, we have agreed a and renewal for the Collection and thank you all for your Walking Madonna, clear rejuvenation pause in our touring for recommended continued support. Ian Baker 1981. Bronze. The Secretary to the Friends of the Collection conservation work, while negotiations begin for a new host Montrose, Brockhill Road, Colwall, Herefordshire, WR13 6EX Close, Salisbury Phone: 01684 540477 Cathedral home for the Collection. We must care for the Collection – Ann Sumner [email protected] Front Cover: Elisabeth to the highest, possible standards, preserving it for future Bob Williams Frink (1930-93), Pieta, Newsletter Editor 1956. Black ink, wash generations and ensuring it plays a key role in the missional Phone: 01225 720188 and watercolour FS. life of the Methodist Church. We also have ambitions to see [email protected] From the Methodist it fully researched and interpreted so that the widest possible Modern Art Collection Produced by Cultureshock Media Art Director: Alfonso Iacurci Designer: Luke Smith www.cultureshockmedia.co.uk Newsletter 21 — Spring 2019 3 A tribute to retiring Chair of Retirement of two long- the Management Committee, serving members of the John Gibbs Management Committee

‘Very many of us have looked and Appreciation in Wales 1945-1996’ at the National Museum in Cardiff. I was serving as Chaplain to Cardiff University seen more than a painting…’ and, as such, it was easy to view the exhibition time and time again. What a pleasure it was, and what an opportunity for John N Gibbs: Helping to broaden the horizon… students at the Chaplaincy to engage with art that captures ‘What are you reading?’ the richness of creation. The exhibition gave a glimpse not This simple question began, for me, a much greater simply of the tastes and interests of John’s parents, but awareness of – and engagement with – the visual arts. I rather of their understanding of the centrality of art to Meryl Doney and Bob Williams with retiring Chair John Gibbs hope that John will not mind me recounting this, but it everyday life. The fascinating catalogue recounts how John was asked of me by his father – John Morel Gibbs, a former and Sheila Gibbs purchased works for the home and gave Meryl Doney retires from the Management Committee Friends Group. He took up this post in 2008 as the Friends Vice-President of the Conference, who was interviewing paintings as gifts to mark family birthdays and anniversaries. after more than ten years of service, initially as an ecumenical Group was launched - some of you may remember meeting me as a candidate for ordained Methodist ministry. I now Indeed, I seem to recall that John and Elizabeth loaned to adviser and in the later days as Vice-Chair. She has made a Bob at Wesley College in Bristol on that occasion or at the realise I was reading very little and making very little time for the exhibition a piece given to them by John and Sheila as a major contribution to the development of the Collection’s northern regional launch in York in March 2009. Since the visual arts. So, Dr Gibbs supplied novels and suggested wedding present. The exhibition could easily have been about exhibition management, bringing her experience of working then Bob has worked assiduously, recruiting new Friends exhibitions to visit. That encounter marks the start of my a generous benefactor to Welsh life. Instead, it was about at the Hayward Gallery on London’s South Bank, at St Paul’s and connecting them (indeed a wider readership too) not awareness of the Methodist Modern Art Collection. a way of seeing the world. That expansive vision has been Cathedral (where she curated ‘Presence: Images of Christ for just to the work of the Collection but to news elsewhere in That it was John’s father that should spark within me a passed on to John and his brothers, to Methodism – and not the Third Millennium’) and at Wallspace, the gallery in All the art world. He has taken the early ‘personal letter’ format greater awareness of the visual arts is, of course, significant. only to those who see the Collection, but all who (in a variety Hallows on the Wall Church, London Wall, which she created of the Newsletter onto a most professional level (through Many years later I have had the very good fortune of seeing of ways) are influenced by it. as a ‘spiritual home for the visual arts’. A splendid exhibition of collaborating with staff at Cultureshock Media), but never something of John N’s passion for and dedication to the John N has developed the generous spirit of John M, the Methodist Collection was staged, by Meryl, at Wallspace lost the personal touch of his editorial. I know this has exploration of God’s grace as he has overseen the development and has encouraged Methodism and the wider Church to in 2010. This included a Friends’ Evening in the presence of a been greatly valued by the readership. Bob has also played of the Collection. see differently. Very many of us have looked and seen more number of the Collection’s artists. Roughly half the Collection a large part in the compilation of the Annual Report and In his role as Chair of the Management Committee than a painting; we have seen afresh glimpses of the grace of was shown at the Greenbelt Festival in 2011 with around the Collection’s web pages. His skills in photography and of the Collection John has been much more than a chair God. That sort of encounter transforms our experience of 7,000 people seeing it over the August Bank Holiday weekend. presentation have been invaluable in telling the story of the of meetings. He has held before the Methodist Church the the world. That is no mean task and for it we owe John a very Meryl had first shown the Collection at Greenbelt in 1995 Collection on tour, and in the creation of Friends publicity possibilities of the Collection and in so doing has enabled all great debt of gratitude indeed. and went on to orchestrate this successful sequel exhibition. In leaflets. In the words of John N Gibbs, paying tribute to manner of communities to reflect on the power of the visual. 2017 she organised the display of F N Souza’s The Crucifixion Bob, “how much the Friends Group has benefited – as have – The Revd Canon Gareth J Powell, Secretary of the We can record the numbers of those who have viewed the at St Paul’s Cathedral as part of the India-UK Cultural a number of local organisers whose hands he has held so Methodist Conference Collection, but we can only imagine the scale and depth of Exchange, with the Opening attended by the Indian High effectively!” I would echo those words, having shadowed its impact. To draw an analogy with the Parable of the Sower, Commissioner. Meryl's particular passion and expertise was Bob in supporting the Llandudno and Bath exhibitions, the Collection may be seed, sower and soil in different ways introducing the work of new artists, from various parts of the and acting for many years as Newsletter proof reader - I’m for different people. That is the task of Christian mission – a world, to the Collection’s Acquisitions Committee. She played always delighted by what he has confected. It’s good to know task that John not only enables, but lives. The Collection is a major role in the acquisition of Craigie Aitchison’s Pink that Bob will continue as editor whilst he passes the Friends testimony to his concern that the community of the risen Crucifixion and Maggi Hambling’s Good Friday: Walking on Group mantle to our new Friends Secretary, Ian Baker. Christ understands the breadth of all that God has made. Water, 2006. We shall miss her wise and capable leadership. – Sarah Middleton In 2004 the National Museums and Galleries of Bob Williams will be known to readers of this Wales staged ‘An Art-Accustomed Eye: John Gibbs and Art Newsletter as its excellent editor and the first Secretary to the

4 Friends of the Methodist Modern Art Collection Newsletter 21 — Spring 2019 5 The Chair of the Management Professor Ann Sumner’s choice… Committee in focus

the most exciting periods of my career. I return to Wales My favourite painting in the Collection has always been The regularly, being honoured last summer to be made a Fellow of Supper at Emmaus by the Welsh artist Ceri Richards who Aberystwyth University. came from Swansea and trained at Swansea College of Art. In 2007 I moved to Birmingham, initially as Director He was much influenced by the Davies sisters’ Impressionist of the Barber Institute, (University of Birmingham) and Collection. His career was really forged in London, where he Professor of Fine Art and Curatorial Practice, followed by had been awarded a scholarship at the R.C.A., although he a spell overseeing the Birmingham Museums Trust. Most did return to Wales as Head of Cardiff School of Art during recently I have been engaged as Head of Fine Art at the World War II. It was Mike Tooby who introduced me to the University of Leeds, leading on their Public Art Project work of Richards when I was in Cardiff and Mel Gooding with its focus on British 20th century sculpture. I am was curating the impressive exhibition there. passionate about the Collection continuing to travel and to The subject of this painting is taken from St Luke’s be accessible to as many people as possible whether in urban Gospel (Chap. 24: v 30-31). Two of the disciples were walking or rural communities. It was particularly satisfying to see it to Emmaus after the Crucifixion when the resurrected Jesus last summer in Cromer, as part of an overall mission to the joined them, although they did not know him. This vibrant homeless in the area. I remain very busy with my academic study is a small but powerful depiction of that very moment and consultancy work. of realisation when Christ, having accepted an invitation to I first became involved in hanging the Methodist stay and eat, blesses and breaks the bread, and the apostles Modern Art Collection when I met John Gibbs in the early recognise him. Christ is central, his hand raised in a blessing, 1990s. I was able to help John hang the exhibition when it highlighted by the yellow background which forms the showed at the Maltings, Farnham, in the spring of 1993. shape of a cross, incorporating the table. The composition Then, when I moved to Cardiff in 2000, John and I met up is innovative and the viewer is instantly drawn into the again as he had re-located back to Wales and I was fortunate action. One imagines Richards must have been familiar with It was while at Kingswood School in the late 1970s, that enough to work with colleagues on the 2004 exhibition, the iconic depiction of the subject in the 1601 painting by I first became interested in the History of Art and was ‘An Art-Accustomed Eye: John Gibbs and Art Appreciation Caravaggio that hangs in the National Gallery. Here a figure introduced to the Collection. Two teachers inspired me, in Wales 1945-96’, which focused on John’s father Dr John also pushes his chair back away from Christ but there is no Philippa Bishop and Keith Duchars; I will always remember Morel Gibbs (1912 – 1996). As founder and architect of sense in Caravaggio’s painting that Christ is about to vanish. their passion for art. From Kingswood, I went on to the Collection, he believed that visual art could provide In contrast, Richards shows the figure of Christ blending into the Courtauld Institute of Art, University of London, a powerful and meaningful social experience and spent a the bright yellow background, as if he is disappearing before (From top) Ceri Richards (1903-71), The Supper at Emmaus, where I studied, for my BA in History of European Art lifetime devoted to this cause. A year later I was approached our very eyes. It is the colours of this watercolour that are so 1958. Pen and ink, watercolour and gouache. From the and Architecture, under Neil McGregor, Anita Brooker by John about becoming a Managing Trustee, a role I was arresting, predominantly yellow and blue with green. Methodist Modern Art Collection; The Ceri Richards altarpiece in the chapel of St. Edmund Hall, Oxford and Ben Read. Then it was off to Newnham College, delighted to accept in 2006. The picture was an early inspired purchase by Revd Cambridge, where I obtained my PhD and volunteered at the The quality of this Collection is outstanding and I have Douglas Wollen who wanted Richards represented in the Fitzwilliam Museum. enjoyed expounding on this at the launch of the Friends Collection and had seen both his The Deposition at St Mary’s My career in museums and galleries began at the organisation in Bristol in 2008 and giving talks on the work Church in Swansea and the famous Supper at Emmaus National Portrait Gallery, London. By the mid 1980s I was of the Collection around the U.K. altarpiece, in the chapel of St Edmund Hall, Oxford. Assistant Curator at the Holburne Museum. My career path It is an exciting period for the Collection and I am, Our painting is a sketch for, or possibly made after, that then took me to the Whitworth Art Gallery, the Dulwich as Chair of our Management Committee, pleased to be finished work, which resulted from an open competition. going to see the final work in situ in Oxford, but do arrange Picture Gallery, as Keeper, the Harewood House Trust in the working with colleagues who give so generously of their time. It is interesting to note that two other artists represented in access in advance. The similarities between our Collection 1990s as Senior Curator before returning to the Holburne I look forward to moving forward, with this excellent team, the Methodist Collection, Lee-Elliott and de Maistre, also study and the fine finished work of the altarpiece can be seen as Keeper in 1996. In 2000 I was appointed Head of Fine following the recent reviews, to ensure that the Collection is submitted entries. Wollen acquired the work directly from in the images below. This remains for me one of the most Art at Amgueddfa Cymru/National Museum of Wales cared for to the highest standard and to find an appropriate the artist who, at the time, was about to exhibit at the 1962 inspirational paintings in the Collection. Small but perfectly where I was in post for over seven wonderful years, one of new home. Venice Biennale, his reputation on the rise. It is really worth formed and enormously powerful.

6 Friends of the Methodist Modern Art Collection Newsletter 21 — Spring 2019 7 SALT AND LIGHT Trinity Methodist Church WINSFORD TRAINING DAY and St. Andrew’s Methodist Church, Winsford 7-30 September 2018 ‘The Collection being displayed in Winsford has added a little flavour to our lives, very much as salt does, and shed some light on the stories of faith in a new way…’

Early September 2018 saw a large the U.K. We were also very much aware Roman helmets made in response to lorry draw up to offload an assortment of the instruction given by Jesus, in the The Mocking of Christ, or ideas around of heavy wooden crates at our two Sermon on the Mount when He speaks a good meal when looking at the Supper exhibition venues in Winsford. Thus of the salt and light and where He calls at Emmaus paintings. arrived the Methodist Modern Art those who hear Him to have an impact During the time the Collection Willing executive hands put the Burra watercolour to bed. Photo: Ann Sumner Collection in the Mid-Cheshire Circuit, on their surroundings. was in Winsford we worked with the to be exhibited at two contrasting During the time the Collection Cross-Hatch Community Gallery, and buildings, Trinity Methodist Church was with us in Winsford one key aim Makerspace. This revolved around art and St Andrew's Methodist Church was to engage with, and respond to, engagement, be it the drop-in events (one a 1890's building, and the other the works so all could see that faith throughout the exhibition, one of The artworks in our Methodist training. The timing also seemed This full day represented another dating from the 1970's) for three can be expressed through art. This the formal talks that focused on the Modern Art Collection do not enjoy appropriate given the significant changes useful stage in trying to ensure the weeks in September. The title for the started with the Messy Church the relationship between modern art and the charmed existence of hanging in a in the Management Committee with Collection remains in quality condition exhibition ‘Salt and Light’ came first day after the exhibition opened. Here religion, or the Legacy Exhibition gallery for most of their days but instead some long serving members retiring and and a valuable resource available for from Winsford and the area's historic a range of media and techniques were which took place over November and follow a touring lifestyle with periods five new members joining. Monday 1 future generations. Thanks must be and present links to the salt industry. used by the families attending to show December. This supporting event was of rest in exhibition venues or storage October 2018 presented an opportunity expressed to those from the Winsford The Cheshire Salt Mines date back to a response to some of the works on planned from the start as something of differing standards. There is clearly a being just after the Winsford ‘Salt and team for accommodating this day at Roman times and, today, Winsford can display, exemplified by the modelling that would extend the impact of the positive in this as the mission purposes Light’ exhibition closed and before a time when they simply wanted to lay claim to be the largest of its type in clay form of The Washing of the Feet, the main exhibition of paintings, drawings of the Collection are met but also a transport arrived to take the artworks dismantle and take a well-deserved and prints from the Methodist Modern negative in terms of the greater level of onward to Dublin. Members able to rest. Across their two church sites Art Collection and be another way exposure to wear and tear compared to attend were joined by Chezzy Brownen, they provided a visible reminder of all that people could respond to the works. largely static collections. who had been commissioned, in July, to a local group has to tackle in hosting The Legacy Exhibition was hosted at The Management Committee undertake a wide-ranging procedural an exhibition and how borrower a number of venues around the town, has recognised the need to foster a and practice review of the Collection. As perspectives need to be factored into our including the local library, again higher level of care and conservation pictures were being taken down she used guidance and requests. increasing the profile of the Collection of the Collection beyond all that has them to illustrate particular issues and a – Ian Baker during its stay in the area. been accomplished to date - within number of practical handling tasks were It can be said that the Collection cost constraints. It was decided that undertaken by committee members. being displayed in Winsford has added a training day should be devoted In the afternoon Chezzy shared some a little flavour to our lives, very much to a programme focusing on loan of the preliminary findings from her as salt does, and shed some light on the arrangements and responsibilities, review. We were also able to see work stories of faith in a new way. understanding how condition reporting being undertaken to provide a detailed should be undertaken, packing baseline record of the condition of each – Revd James Patron Bell arrangements, buildings security, picture that will serve to prioritise later (From top) A young member’s interpretation, in clay, of Ghislaine Howard’s The Washing environmental conditions and volunteer conservation work. of the Feet, at a Messy Church session; Works on display at St Andrews, Winsford

8 Friends of the Methodist Modern Art Collection Newsletter 21 — Spring 2019 9 FAITH AND THE ARTIST The Royal Hibernian REFLECTING UPON THE FIRST TEN YEARS Academy, Dublin 14 November – 21 December 2018 OF THE FRIENDS GROUP

The visit of the Methodist Modern Art Collection to Dublin represented another exciting ‘first’ – an exhibition of the Collection beyond the borders of the The early seeds of an idea that a the Artists evening’, at Wallspace in U.K and the Crown Dependency of the supportive body of Friends of the the City of London, to coincide with Isle of Man. From the outset, members Collection might be established was their 2010 hosting of the Collection. of Curator Neil Payne’s Steering first floated at a Trustees’ (now the Susie Hamilton and Mark Cazalet Committee were clear in identifying Management Committee) Meeting, were our speakers on this occasion. their three objectives: - to provide an held in Oxford, back in May 2007; the There have, subsequently, been other educational and spiritual experience Minutes on that occasion read “A Friends events where we have enjoyed listening for those who visited the exhibition, Group would foster interest and good to some of our extant artists, such as to raise the profile of the Methodist will”. Trustees Sarah Middleton and Ghislaine Howard, Nick Mynheer Left to right: Revd Billy Davison (President of the Methodist Church Church in Ireland and to engage with of Ireland), Lynda Neilands (Lay Leader) Neil Payne and John Gibbs. Angela Dewar were asked to formulate and Clive Hicks-Jenkins, recount folk of all ages beyond the relatively Photo: Revd Dr Peter Mercer the early planning on this and research their experiences. small Methodist community within the logistics of a Friends Launch, to be Since inception we have been the Republic. held in Bristol, in November 2008. greatly appreciative of the support of our Footfall within the Royal The Minutes of the October Honorary Patrons. The President of the Hibernian Academy over the five-week Trustees’ Meeting confirm that“Bob Methodist Conference is always invited period of the ‘Faith and the Artist’ Williams, who had recently come to to stand to coincide with his or her year exhibition exceeded 23,000. Although Art Appreciation Groups, together with dissenter tradition, to venture into the attention of the Trustees, should be of Office. Very sadly, since 2008 we have RHA Reception do not differentiate students from the National College of collecting religious art. But then, when asked to take on the role of Membership lost two who were particularly proactive in counting between visitors to Art and Design. There was an excellent one considers the life of John and Charles Secretary for the Friends Group”. in this role: Revd Tom Devonshire- different galleries within the building, website available throughout the Wesley one may be less surprised, as I was thus appointed to the then Jones and Revd David Gamble (initially we understand that the vast majority period of the exhibition (with the core neither ever left the Church of England. body of Managing Trustees as Secretary as President of Conference then saw the Collection on display. From element of it still available for viewing Ranging from stark existentialist works to the Friends, with the brief to progress invited in his own right). The current, comments received, the RHA’s skilful today: methodistartdublin.ie). Posts to more decorative, illustrative depictions, matters, including the provision of a permanent team, representative both of hanging, although only using 30 works on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram there is nothing showy or sensational Friends Newsletter to be published the art world and Church bodies, are from the Collection, proved particularly served to underline the extent to which here. Rather one will encounter works twice a year. the Very Revd Nick Bury, former Dean effective. It is perhaps to be regretted it is possible, these days, to reach an of art that were created with a profound The initial Friends Group of Gloucester Cathedral, Phil Allison, that there was no actual presence in even wider audience and confirmed sense of artistic integrity, prompted Launch subsequently took place on 14 M.D of Cultureshock Media who have the exhibition area to welcome visitors the extent of interest in the Collection by an intention of trying to grapple November, 2008, at Wesley College, been so generous with their services and be able to talk about the works, but during its stay in Dublin. authentically with the enduring themes of Bristol. This was a notable occasion over the years, and, as reported in the the rules of the RHA did not allow for Some words of Dr Gesa Thiessen, Christian faith’. kindly hosted by the then Principal, Editorial to this edition, the recent specific stewarding in the exhibition reviewing the exhibition in the Irish Revd Dr. Jonathan Pye, now Chair of addition of Lord Leslie Griffiths of Compiled by the Editor, based on gallery itself. Times, make for interesting reading. Dr the Bristol Methodist District. An event Burry Port, now Opposition Spokesman information supplied by Neil Payne, Management Committee member Thiessen is a theologian who lectures particularly well attended by members for the Media and the Arts in the House Chair of the Steering Committee Sarah Middleton had conducted a well- both at Trinity College, Dublin and of the Bristol Victoria Methodist of Lords. appointed by the Dublin District of received seminar ahead of the Opening at Sarum College, Salisbury: ‘From the Church Art Appreciation Group, of We continue to be enormously the Methodist Church in Ireland. and there was a further programme 1980s onwards theological research on whom a substantial number felt moved, grateful for both the tangible financial of talks with popular appeal. Three the relationship between faith and the by what they seen and heard, to sign up support received through subscriptions schools engaged, on pre-arranged visits, arts has proliferated on an unprecedented as Friends. and donations – and your continuing with guided tours, taking advantage scale. A curious and remarkable addition A second Launch then took place, expressions of appreciation for our of the schools’ material thoughtfully to this development is the Methodist in the Spring of 2009, to coincide with endeavours. As I now stand down as prepared and available to young visitors. Church Collection of Modern Christian the Collection showing in the City of Secretary to the Friends I am delighted A number of other schools made their Art currently on exhibition at the Royal York – both at the Minster and York that Ian Baker will be in post to oversee (From top) Trustees (as they were then own arrangements. Other groups Hibernian Academy in Dublin. It is Central Methodist Church. Since which termed) left to right: Sarah Middleton, Angela Friends Group matters and to carry taking advantage of guided tours were curious and remarkable indeed as one time we have been able to promote Dewar & Ann Sumner; Mary Hill contemplates things forward with fresh initiatives. Muafangejo’s the Methodist Historical Society of might not have expected the Methodists, occasional Friends events which have, as Judas Iscariot betrayed our Lord Jesus for R.3.00, 1972. Linocut; Rachel Newton – The Editor Ireland, local Vocational History and originating from the non-conformist mentioned elsewhere, included a ‘Meet in full flow at the Friends Launch!

10 Friends of the Methodist Modern Art Collection Newsletter 21 — Spring 2019 11 TRUSTEES/MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE, SEEING THE SPIRITUAL - A GUIDE TO THE PAST AND PRESENT, GATHER IN OXFORD METHODIST MODERN ART COLLECTION

In early February, at the invitation of This expanded and revised edition The Guide features a Foreword by the represented, such as Norman Adams, John and Elizabeth Gibbs, many of of the Guide to the Methodist art critic Richard Cork, a new Preface by Edward Burra, Elisabeth Frink, those who have, over the years, served Modern Art Collection is based on an Ann Sumner, Chair of the Management Maggi Hambling, David Jones, Ceri as Trustees, Administrators, or on original text by Roger Wollen, with Committee of the Collection and an Richards, William Roberts and Graham the current Management Committee additional contributions by members Introduction by Graham Kent. Sutherland. International artists gathered in Oxford. It was a joy to of the Management Committee of the Famous names from the British include Georges Rouault from France, share in each other’s company over a Methodist Modern Art Collection. art world of the past 100 years are F N Souza and Jyoti Sahi from India, delicious lunch at the Quod Restaurant Sadao Watanabe from Japan, and John in the ‘High’; a perfect opportunity to Muafangejo from Southern Africa. share reminiscences of all that had been The Guide costs £7.99 (plus P&P achieved with the Collection over the 20 £2.50) and is published by Methodist years of John’s tenure as Chair. Publishing. It can be ordered by In his words of welcome John contacting Norwich Books and Music gave generous plaudits to all who had by telephone 0845 017 8220, or email: served – past and present – as Patrons, [email protected] Trustees or Management Committee members and included a warm tribute to the work of the late Geoff Cornell and David Gamble. As John commented, we have indeed been privileged in our companions along the way. At the conclusion of lunch, and on behalf of those present, Ann Sumner, Chair of our Management Committee, expressed our warm appreciation to John and Elizabeth for their generosity in hosting the occasion.

– The Editor

OBITUARY NOTICE

We are much saddened to report the death, in her 102nd year, of Hilda (from top) Sarah Middleton with Roger Stevens, of Bath. Hilda was our oldest Greeves and former Administrator Mary Roseweir; Newly appointed Secretary to the subscribing member of the Friends Friends, Ian Baker (centre), with Ann Baker Group and always interested in news of and Chris Shott; John Gibbs, reflecting on two decades of service by the Art Collection team; the Collection. We extend our sincere Ann Sumner, thanking John and Elizabeth for condolences to her family. their generous hosting of the Oxford Lunch.

12 Friends of the Methodist Modern Art Collection Newsletter 21 — Spring 2019 13 ELSEWHERE IN THE ART WORLD

CHELTENHAM - TUESDAY 23 ‘SEVEN LAST WORDS’ APRIL TO SUNDAY 12 MAY 2019 6 March – 22 April (Daily 10.00 a.m. Cheltenham has acquired a notable Practical Course – 5.00 p.m.) reputation for hosting four Festivals A five days icon painting course led by St. Michael’s Church, Discoed, NEW ROOM MUSEUM, THE covering Jazz, Science, Music and Ian Knowles, a master iconographer LD8 2NW HORSEFAIR, BRISTOL Literature during the course of each and Principal of Bethlehem Icon year. A fifth is now emerging with its School. Tuesday 23 to Saturday 27 I would draw your attention to the ‘What a wonderful Christian Arts Festival which started in April 2019, 10am - 4pm, St Nicholas biennial exhibition currently showing 2016, mainly using churches from across Church, Prestbury. at St. Michael’s. Fourteen artists have way to explain the all denominations in the Cheltenham again been invited to complete work on and Gloucester areas as its venues. Meditations and Discussion the Lenten theme ‘Seven Last Words’. history of Methodism…’ Rachel Treweek, the Bishop of Images of the Divine – Meditations Gloucester, has become its new Patron and Discussion on the paintings A NEW FRANK ROPER CENTRE The radical and exciting re-development and summed up the first two Festivals of Sieger Köder. Sunday 28 April IN CARDIFF of the entire New Room site, the oldest as follows: 2019, 2.30 - 5.00pm, St Paul and St A permanent exhibition to honour Methodist building in the world, was ‘I have witnessed a wonderful Stephen, Gloucester. the life and work of British sculptor made possible very largely through showcase where creative artists share their Frank Roper MBE - of course well access to Heritage Lottery Funding faith through many expressions such as Talks represented in our own Collection resources, with the Museum very much song, visual art, drama and storytelling. New Altarpiece - P J Crook MBE. - has recently opened in the Church The Common Room, showing the ‘Primitive Physic’ Dispensary which, as an early forerunner of the at the heart of the scheme. Further NHS, provided free health care for the folk of Bristol who came seeking it The events have been enjoyed by a wide Thursday 2 May 2019, 7.30pm, St of the Resurrection, Grand Avenue, generous grants from the Bristol range of audiences from different faith Michael and All Angels Church, Ely, Cardiff CF5 4HX. The Centre Methodist District and from a number backgrounds, and those of no faith, Bishops Cleeve was unveiled in a special service of of small trusts, including the Leonard air sermon in 1790, the extraordinary that this rather sad story does not sit too who respect the Christian invitation rededication of the church, led by the Laity Stoate Charitable Trust, were Adam Clarke ‘Tree Stump’ chair and comfortably with the public perception to everyone to celebrate, explore and Encountering Gospel Women in Paint - Bishop of Llandaff, on Sunday 24 also significant to the overall planning. the recently acquired, so-called ‘Lily of his great achievements, it can hardly discover more of life in many joyful and Professor Philip Esler of the University February and will open to the public Opened in July 2017, the first floor Portrait’, of Charles Wesley as a young be airbrushed from history? vibrant ways’ of Gloucester. Thursday 9 May 2019, every Sunday (until 4pm), with specially space that now houses the Museum tells man. Possibly the most bizarre are both A Visitors’ Book is always a good For those interested specifically 7pm, The Wilson, Cheltenham. trained volunteers on hand to provide the story of the Wesleys, from John’s the eye patch and sword belonging to indicator of the impact made by any in art the 2019 programme offers a guided tours of the Roper work on arrival in Bristol in 1739, and of the Captain Thomas Webb, one of the early well-planned museum or gallery. The variety of practical sessions, an art trail Imaging the Story – Art and Poetry display within the building. growth, from small beginnings, of 18th missionary preachers despatched abroad following comments would seem to of exhibitions and other related events. through the Bible - Gill Sakakini. Century Methodism. from the New Room (he always carried confirm the Five Star status of this one: Worth highlighting are: Thursday 9 May 2019, 7.30pm, Discover The Museum actually occupies both into the pulpit when preaching!). ‘Really lovely museum – and, clearly, DeCrypt (St Mary de Crypt), Gloucester. the Preachers’ Rooms that Wesley had He has a rightful claim to be considered John Wesley a wonderful man with built immediately above the Meeting the principal founder of Methodism in right-thinking principles’... ‘So much The full programme and ticket Room. The themed rooms are quite the U.S.A. has changed at the New Room in 15 prices can be viewed at www. small but thoughtfully designed to I liked the use of Wesleyan ‘banner years but the essence of Wesley remains. christianartsfestival.org which contains provide maximum visual information quotations’ strategically positioned Fantastic curatorial job’...‘Brilliant link details for online bookings. A paper without ever appearing cluttered and, within the museum space: ‘An ounce displays; very inspiring. Makes me feel brochure is advertised as being available throughout, there are opportunities to of love is worth a pound of knowledge’... good to be a Methodist minister!’... ‘What from mid February 2019. Email contact access a number of hands-on displays, ‘Who can reconcile war – to any degree of a wonderful way to explain the history is [email protected] designed to be accessible to both reason or common sense’ ... and, of course, of Methodism’. – Ian Baker children and adults. A number of the the keynote quotation dating from 1738 – A helpful audio guide (available rooms focus on issues of social justice ‘I felt my heart strangely warmed’. in three languages) is included in the that resonated so strongly with ‘JW’. I do feel it a little disappointing, admission charge. Altogether well worth Making a particular impact is the given the generous space allocated to a visit. In the meantime an informative gallery devoted to his implacable stance his other key relationships with women, website will keep you abreast of on the Abolition of Slavery. including Grace Murray, whom he New Room news, as will recourse As with any museum there are might have wed, that there is simply no to TripAdvisor. fascinating artefacts that catch the eye: mention of John Wesley’s disastrous – The Editor the chair from which, at the advanced marriage to Molly Vazeille in the age of 87, Wesley preached his last open- Museum’s coverage. While appreciating

14 Friends of the Methodist Modern Art Collection Newsletter 21 — Spring 2019 15 FORTHCOMING TOUR PROGRAMME FOR THE COLLECTION

2019 2 May - 9 June 2019 'WONDERING SOUL' Leicester (The Cathedral; Bishop Street Methodist Church; St. Andrews Church; St. Nicholas’ Church; Launde Abbey) Contact: Bethany Piggott Email: [email protected] (Also: Revd Fran Rhys [email protected])

Again, in advance of this exhibition, we would flag up the availability of an interesting website which includes a request for willing volunteers in a variety of roles: www.wonderingsoul.co.uk

In addition to the exhibition, there will be a programme of exciting creative events for all ages, including workshops, talks, artist residencies and a county-wide poetry project.

2020 21 March - 19 April 2020 Bewdley, Worcestershire (Wyre Forest Gallery, Bewdley Museum) Contact: Jim Ineson: 01299 405645 Email: [email protected]

The publicity poster designed for Leicester’s ‘Wondering Soul’ exhibition (TBC) SEPTEMBER 2020

Windermere, Cumbria Contact: Revd Martyn Coe, 01539 533223 Email: [email protected]

A THOUGHT TO LEAVE YOU WITH “Painting is the grandchild of nature. It is related to God.”

We are delighted to enjoy the – Rembrandt van Rijn support of our Honorary Patrons: Revd the Lord Leslie Griffiths of Burry Port; President of Methodist Conference; The Very Revd Nick Bury and Mr Phil Allison.