Artistic tributes to Morpeth’s famous suffragette unveiled

Artistic tributes to Morpeth’s famous suffragette unveiled

12 June 2013

 Artwork completed by Morpeth school pupils has been unveiled at Sanderson Arcade this week as part of the town’s tribute to Emily Wilding Davison.
The fantastic pieces of art reflecting the green, purple and white of the suffragette movement make up the latest eye catching display to be installed along the Arcade’s Edwardian gallery.
 
Groups right across the region are marking the centenary of the famous Northumbrian suffragette’s death - Emily suffered fatal injuries when she stepped in front of the king’s horse at the Epsom Derby on June 4th 1913.
 
And a group of Y7 youngsters at Newminster and Morpeth Chantry School have been learning about Emily’s life and working in their own artwork projects which reflect the suffragette movement in Edwardian times.
 
Banners displaying suffragette slogans as well as large scale teapots and umbrellas made out of wicker and tissue are among the pieces of art which have been put in pride of place at The Arcade for shoppers and visitors to enjoy. The pupils have used fabric, beads, silk, wicker and tissue to make their impressive pieces.
 
The centre displays a different theme every month along the gallery and suffragette coloured drapes and bunting were installed earlier this month  – that’s now been joined by the artwork completed by the children in time for the centenary. 
 
Centre Manager at Sanderson Arcade, Medi Parry said: “We’ve had some great feedback from our customers about the changing Arcade features and we are delighted to have the opportunity to join with the rest of the town in paying tribute to this remarkable woman.
 
“I hope the children have enjoyed taking part in the project – we’re certainly very proud to have their fantastic artwork on show and hope our visitors enjoy looking at the fabulous display as much as we have.”
 
Local artist Elaine Porter and teacher Jill Woolley have been working with the pupils on the project over the last six weeks in a weekly two hour art session.
 
Jill, who is Chantry and Newminster Creative Arts Subject Leader,  said: “We were delighted to be given this opportunity to create large scale pieces of art for such an event as the centenary and thrilled to have it displayed in the elegant Sanderson Arcade.
“It has given the pupils the chance to work on a wide variety of techniques alongside local artist Elaine Porter and they have loved being involved in this exciting project.”
 
 
For more information about events at Sanderson Arcade visit www.sandersonarcade.co.uk  and to find out about the centenary visit   www.emilyinspires.net

For further information, contact:

Public Relations Department, Dransfield Properties Ltd
Tel: 01226 360644
Email: pr@dransfield.co.uk