Smithdown Social Arts Hub, in partnership with The Athenaeum, is delighted to announce a heritage-rich addition to its upcoming local artist exhibition. This unique project will feature previously unseen works by historic Liverpool artists, including James Brierley (1783–1814) and William Gawin Herdman (1805–1882), displayed for the first time to the public.
In addition to contemporary local artists, the exhibition will shine a spotlight on significant works from The Athenaeum’s private collection, focusing on Liverpool’s illustrious artistic history. Two of the exhibition’s heritage highlights include artwork by James Brierley, a prominent portrait and landscape painter of the early 19th century, and William Gawin Herdman, renowned for his depictions of Liverpool’s changing cityscape. Both artists were instrumental in capturing the essence of Liverpool during their lifetimes.
These artworks, meticulously preserved within The Athenaeum’s private collection, have largely remained out of public view—until now. The exhibition offers a rare opportunity to explore Liverpool’s past through the lens of two of its most distinguished historic artists.
The exhibition will not only honour these historic figures but also foster a dialogue between past and present by juxtaposing their works with those of contemporary local artists. This interaction between old and new illustrates Liverpool’s continuous artistic evolution and underscores the city’s rich cultural heritage.
“This is a truly special moment for art and art history lovers in Liverpool,” said Brenda Monahan, Director at Smithdown Social Arts Hub. “The opportunity to include the works of James Brierley and William Gawin Herdman, alongside today’s talented local artists, allows us to reflect on the city’s enduring artistic legacy.”
“We are excited to share with the city region important pieces of historic artwork held within the Athenaeum’s collection, to do this alongside stunning contemporary pieces will provide a unique experience. As an organisation we are committed to providing managed access and showcasing items of significant heritage from our collection, and this leap towards access and engagement alongside partners Smithdown Social Arts Hub looks to be a memorable step in our history,” said Roger Phillips, Chair of The Athenaeum.
Event Highlights:
- Exhibition Dates: 13th September to 29th November, 2024
- Location: The Athenaeum, Liverpool
- Featuring: Historic works by James Brierley (1783–1814) and William Gawin Herdman (1805–1882), alongside contemporary local Liverpool artists
- Heritage Focus: Explore rare and previously unseen pieces from The Athenaeum’s private collection, offering insights into Liverpool’s cultural and artistic evolution over the past two centuries.
The exhibition also invites the public to enjoy refreshments in the historic Newsroom, a venue steeped in history where many significant discussions on Liverpool’s business and artistic heritage have taken place. The Newsroom houses an impressive collection of portraits, some on loan from the Walker Art Gallery, as well as other historic artefacts of interest.
The art and heritage exhibition will be open to the public on most Thursday and Friday evenings from 6-9pm, starting 13th September. The ticket price includes one refreshment at the Newsroom bar and access to the art and heritage displays. Tickets are available via Eventbrite: https://shorturl.at/4RVkE
The first exhibition will launch on Thursday 12th September with a special opening event featuring live music, refreshments, and opportunities to meet the artists. Members of the press are invited to attend this exclusive event. Please RSVP to [email protected].
The exhibition will open to the general public on 13th September. If you wish to attend this event as a buyer, please RSVP to [email protected].
