A Brush with the Past

About

Wimbledon Museum is delighted to announce its upcoming exhibition, A Brush with the Past, an exciting new collaboration with Common Works Gallery. Ten contemporary artists have each drawn inspiration from works of art in the museum’s collection, reinterpreting the perspectives of intriguing figures such as Belgian refugee and anarchist Aloïs de Laet, suffragette Hilda Bather, and renowned stained glass designer Hugh Arnold. The result is a vivid connection between past and present, bringing new life to scenes captured by past painters and offering visitors a fascinating variety of views of the common’s timeless landscape

Wimbledon Common has inspired artists for centuries with its sweeping landscapes, tranquil woodlands, and rich history. This exhibition breathes new life into these iconic scenes as today’s artists respond to the works of the past, offering fresh perspectives on familiar vistas. Visitors will witness a compelling fusion of traditional and modern styles, highlighting the enduring significance of Wimbledon’s unique environment.

Visitors will be encouraged to respond to the paintings themselves, and to visit the Common afterwards to make their own sketches.

Exhibition Highlights:

• Ten contemporary artists offering bold reinterpretations of historic works

• Rarely seen paintings from Wimbledon Museum’s collection

• A celebration of Wimbledon Common’s natural and cultural heritage

"This collaboration is a celebration of the timeless connection between art, history, and place," says museum director Jacqueline Laurence. "By pairing historic paintings with contemporary responses, we invite visitors to see Wimbledon Common with new eyes, exploring its legacy and relevance today."

Katie Preston, co director of Common Works Gallery says, “We’re so excited to be working with the Wimbledon Museum on this project. It’s a great opportunity to showcase artists from a range of disciplines, from painting and drawing to printmaking and collage, all bringing their unique perspectives on works from the museum collection.”