A new exhibition at Bankfield Museum in Halifax is shining a spotlight on the hidden wonders of the local Calderdale landscape.
Featuring the works of watercolour artist Jane Austin, the exhibition titled “Three Miles from Home” showcases scenes that can be found within a three-mile radius of the artist’s home in Halifax. Included are breathtaking images of renowned buildings, dramatic vistas, and the enchanting secrets of nature.
With a professional art career spanning 25 years, Jane Austin has exhibited her work both nationally and locally, presenting numerous solo exhibitions at All Souls’ Church. Her pieces can also be admired at Shibden Hall, Halifax Minster, Dean Clough, and the Piece Hall.
Jane’s art delves into the interplay of light and the seasonal transformations of architecture and the natural world, offering a deeply personal celebration of the local surroundings.
Throughout the exhibition, Jane will be making appearances at Bankfield Museum, providing live demonstrations of her painting techniques and leading a series of workshops where she will impart various watercolour skills. More information and workshop bookings can be found at https://museums.calderdale.gov.uk/.
Jane said of the exhibition:
“I grew up in view of the museum, the fourth generation to live in the two small cottages facing the fantastic vista over Halifax.
“I have deep roots here and have lived around the hillside from my childhood home for the last twenty-one years. My home studio is the perfect base to watch the wildlife, the sunsets and enjoy the garden.
“Mum gave me a love of flowers and Dad gave me a love of animals, particularly birds so they all feature largely in my work. I paint freely on top of detailed structured observational drawing, so the local architectural gems feature too.
“As resident artist I will be holding free demonstrations and some bookable workshops throughout the exhibition on various Saturdays. Come down and have a chat.”
Calderdale Council’s Cabinet Member for Public Services and Communities, Cllr Jenny Lynn, said; “This wonderful exhibition explores the beautiful and distinctive features of our local landscape, demonstrating how the changes in light through the seasons affect the look and feel of the environment.
“It’s amazing that all the paintings capture nature, wildlife and buildings within three miles of the artist’s home in Halifax. It really emphasises the beauty of the varied features on our doorstep, some that we maybe don’t normally see, and others that we perhaps take for granted.”
The exhibition runs until 24th February 2024. Bankfield Museum is open for free entry on Tuesdays to Saturdays and Bank Holidays from 10am to 4pm. Donations to support the collections and exhibitions are always appreciated. For further details about Bankfield Museum and other Calderdale Museums, including the latest events and booking information, please visit www.calderdale.gov.uk/museums.
