Museum & Art Swindon (MAS) is gearing up for its first anniversary with the launch of three new exhibitions, each offering a unique glimpse into the worlds of art and history.
Art lovers can immerse themselves in two striking exhibitions, the first of which, A Very British Art Revolution: Rebellion and Reaction in the Early 20th Century, delves into the transformative era of the 1900s. A time of significant political and social upheaval, this period saw artists pushing boundaries and redefining creative expression. Featuring pieces from MAS’s collection, the exhibition includes works from the Bloomsbury Group’s Vanessa Bell and Duncan Grant, as well as notable abstractionists Ivon Hitchens and Ben Nicholson. It also highlights radical interpretations of Britain’s landscapes by John Piper, Graham Sutherland, and Julian Trevelyan.
The second exhibition, Seriously…, has been developed in partnership with the Friends of Museum & Art Swindon, who have hand-picked 32 works from Swindon Borough Council’s extensive art collection. The exhibition takes inspiration from a remark made by Sir Kenneth Clark, former Chairman of the Arts Council, who once stated, “They take art seriously in Swindon.” The selection features paintings, works on paper, and ceramics, including pieces by Alfred Wallis. Andrew Cross, Chair of the Friends of Museum & Art Swindon, expressed the group’s enthusiasm, saying: “The Friends were excited to be involved with Seriously… and very much welcomed the opportunity to work with MAS to show the diversity in the Swindon collection.”
Both exhibitions are now open to visitors, with A Very British Art Revolution running until 5th July and Seriously… remaining on display until 13th September.
In addition to the artistic showcases, history buffs are in for a treat as MAS unveils Meet the Romans: Life in Swindon’s First Town on 8th April. This exhibition explores life in the Roman settlement of Durocornovium, believed to be located at Nythe Farm. Visitors will be able to uncover the stories behind fascinating artefacts, from ancient jewellery to a Roman ‘radiator’, shedding light on the settlement’s significance in Britain’s past.
Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Placemaking and Planning, highlighted the importance of these new exhibitions, stating: “Swindon’s art collection is finally receiving the recognition it deserves, and I’m proud that we are making the most of every opportunity to showcase it. These two exhibitions provide complementary perspectives that will enrich any visitor’s appreciation of our artistic heritage.
“We’re also uncovering more about Swindon’s Roman past with a fresh look at Durocornovium, located just beyond the A419. The variety of discoveries, from personal adornments to everyday tools, paints a vivid picture of its historical importance.”
With MAS approaching its first anniversary, now is the perfect time for Swindonians and visitors alike to experience its growing collection of exhibitions, celebrating both art and history under one roof.
