Thirty years ago, the governors at Truro School agreed a budget for David Heseltine, then Head of Art, to establish an art collection that would inspire the independent school’s pupils in their own artistic endeavours. Now totalling some 175 drawings, paintings and prints, much of that collection has just gone on public display for the first time at the Royal Cornwall Museum in Truro.
Focusing on post-war artistic activity in the county, the exhibition showcases the work produced by three main centres of excellence - St Ives, Newlyn and Falmouth – and represents students and established artists alike.
“I selected pieces for their educational, rather than commercial value,” said David Heseltine, who was Head of Art at the school from 1976 to 2005, and who continues to curate and add to the collection. “The works are exhibited in the school corridors and offer pupils an alternative way of seeing things. If they don’t encounter good art, they’ll never know how to recognise it. Just like the County Council School Art Collection which has been put together for the benefit of state schools, the Truro School collection is an invaluable teaching aid.”
One of West Cornwall-based artist Michael Strang’s works is hanging in the exhibition.
“It’s a great pleasure to be included,” he said. “I feel very honoured.”
The Truro School exhibition runs at the Royal Cornwall Museum until 2 June. Entry is free. David Heseltine will be giving the Royal Institution of Cornwall Spring Lecture on 24 May. For further details call the museum on 01872 272205.
Ends 20 February 2012
Photos:
082: David Heseltine who manages the Truro School art collection
064: Ian Hunter’s Broken Boat Drawing
062: On St Agnes Isles of Scilly by Robert Jones
059: Godrevy Island by Joan Gilchrest
038: Visitors admire the collection
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