Staff at a Shropshire College have said they are thrilled that a popular art exhibition is to return to their site next month for the first time in four years – and will now be held in aid of charity.
The National Art Exhibition and sale of works was held annually at Ellesmere College for a decade until 2022, but it has now been announced that the event will take place once again in May.
This year’s event will include work by featured artist Stephanie Eufemia, who appeared on Sky TV show Landscape Artist of the Year in February, and proceeds will go to supporting Nightingale House Hospice in Wrexham.
Stephen Mulliock, Deputy Head External Relations at Ellesmere College, said: “The Art Exhibition was always a very well attended event at Ellesmere College and we have missed it in the years it has been away.
“We are thrilled to have it return to our Big School Hall this year. And the break seems to have been well worth it, as the event this year will not only be bigger and better than ever, it is now going to raise vital funds and awareness for specialist palliative and end-of-life care services across the region.
“We hope the Ellesmere community will give it just as much support as previous years and it becomes a mainstay in the College calendar once again.”
The exhibition will give visitors the experience and purchase an inspiring collection of original artwork in a unique setting.
It will feature work from more than 70 nationally renowned artists and sculptors exhibiting over 300 pieces, including landscapes, portraits and abstract art alongside sculptures, ceramics and glass works.
Returning artists include Maximillion Baccanello, Barbara Goolden, Graham Cox RCA, and many more.
The exhibition opens with an exclusive, invitation-only preview evening on Wednesday 27 May, before welcoming the public from Thursday 28 to Saturday 30 May, 11am–7pm.
Stephanie, from Shifnal, said: “I’m delighted to be part of this year’s Ellesmere Art Exhibition, particularly in such a beautiful local setting.
“My work is rooted in observing the shifting light and atmosphere of the landscape, and exhibitions like this create a space for people to slow down and connect with those moments.
“It’s especially meaningful to be involved in an event that also supports the vital work of Nightingale House Hospice.”
Liv Beckett, Director of Communications and Events at Nightingale House Hospice, added: “We’re delighted to be partnering with Ellesmere College to support this much-loved exhibition.
“As well as celebrating outstanding artwork, it helps shine a light on hospice care in our region and raises vital funds that directly support local patients and families.
“We would encourage everyone to come along, explore the exhibition, and support this fantastic event.”
At the last exhibition in 2022 the featured artist was former international cricketer Phil Tufnell, and prior to that featured artists have also included Rae Smith, an acclaimed artist who has worked on the hit stage show War Horse, and former UK Comics Laureate Charlie Adlard, of Shrewsbury.
For more information visit the website www.nightingalehouse.co.uk/events or contact
the events team on 01978 316800 or events@nightingalehouse.co.uk.
Pictured: Stephanie Eufemia.
