UA surprise parcel was delivered to the Ripon Cathedral Office in the form of a large painting of the magnificent Ripon Cathedral which has been kindly donated by past Ripon resident Charles Hunter Pease, now living in Oxford.
Charles explains:
The painting was presented to me in 1981 when I was Regional Manager for Volvo based in Harrogate, hence the intrusion of the vehicle! Returning it to the location where it was painting, I hoped may ensure it finds a worthwhile home.
The unusual painting will form part of the exciting new Ripon Cathedral in the Frame Art Exhibition which opens on Thursday 24 May running for a 10-day period, the exhibition will explore for the first time Ripon and the cathedral’s history illustrated through stunning artworks. Forming part of the exhibition are original pieces of art which have been donated to the cathedral and will be for sale at affordable prices, giving everyone the opportunity to purchase their own piece of history in aid of preserving the future of Ripon Cathedral.
Charles commented:
I am delighted that the painting arrived safely and it might provide the impetus for others to donate or loan items, I do hope so.
The painting is simply signed “Virginia 81” by the artist who is unknown, so please do get in touch if have any information about this mystery artist.
The cathedral Development Campaign is seeking donations of any original artwork to turn old art into a new build, as part of the Ripon Cathedral Renewed Project, making plans for a 21st Century Yorkshire cathedral with potential enhancements such as a restaurant, cafe, and visitor facilities, including the very essential toilets. Members of the community and wider area can support the cathedral by donating their unloved paintings, either of Ripon Cathedral, the surrounding area or any other original artworks.
Margaret Hammond, Ripon Cathedral Development Campaign Manager commented:
We hope that Charles Hunter Pease’s generous donation will encourage others to donate their unwanted artworks to the exhibition and we hope that readers will wish to donate their old art towards the Ripon Cathedral Renewed Project.
Ripon Cathedral in the Frame opens on Thursday 24 May for the preview night and will run from Friday 25 May – Sunday 3 June 2018. Further information about Ripon Cathedral in the Frame can be found online at www.riponcathedral.org.uk/intheframe or you can contact Molly Barrs, Fundraising Events Officer at mollybarrs@riponcathedral.org.uk
