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Spencer Gallery Opens Summer Exhibition

(3 April 2005)

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The 2005 Summer Exhibition at the Spencer Gallery is now open and the private view took place on 3 April with the official opening being undertaken by Robert Fraser who runs the Odney Club for John Lewis Partnership. 

Robert Fraser who opened the Exhibition

The Chairman of the Gallery's Trustees, Dick Hurley, explained that Chris Smith MP had agreed to open the summer exhibition, but a month ago the BBC had asked him to go to Africa for some filming and so they needed a substitute and Robert had kindly stepped into the breach. He also mentioned that planning permission had been accepted for the extensive renovation that was planned and that it was now hoped that a Lottery Grant would be available to actually undertake this.
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Theresa May MP chats to the Lady Mayoress

The gallery was crowded with local dignitaries, including Theresa May MP and the mayor Emrys Hughes. Also the many Friends of the Gallery were there view the Summer Exhibition along with a glass of wine.  The Gallery is not allowed to serve red wine anymore as the insurance company is worried about damage to the paintings.
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The Mayor Emrys Hughes
This year's exhibition concentrates on Cookham scenes and there were some much loved paintings of Cookham such as the Scarecrow, overlooking Marsh Meadow and Magnolia  from private collections and Rickett's Farm borrowed from Tate Britain. Also the Moor, lent by Manchester Art Gallery, which shows a view which has not changed much since it was painted in 1937.

Cookham Moor

Stuart Conlin, Chairman of the Gallery, was there to welcome the visitors, and was very excited about the refurbishment plans

Stuart Colin, Gallery Chairman
As it was a lovely day, there were also a lot of visitors, who were somewhat surprised to find some many people with glasses of wine in their hands.

Where in Cookham is This?
The Exhibition continues until the 31st October and is well worth a visit.  More information can be found at www.stanleyspencer.org.uk.  

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