Art that everyone can relish

A recently unveiled art exhibition that purports to explore social diversity in Dundee’s art collection is earning plaudits.

Among those who have been impressed by the free city centre offering is Newporton-tay-based Craigie reader Stanley Gordon, who writes: “From a layman’s point of view, I enjoyed my visit to the Hidden Histories

exhibition of 20th Century paintings at the Mcmanus Galleries.

“Consisting of works from the galleries’ own collections, the subjects are diverse, eclectic and full of interest. The notes beside the works are in-depth and informative.

“I especially enjoyed viewing the collection of delicate floral works by various women artists and also of Dorothea Sharp’s Children On The Rocks, which brought to mind the seascape paintings by William Mctaggart.

“I was impressed by Dame Laura Knight’s colourful Ascot Finery, c1936-38, and the activity in her painting The Last Act, 1929.

“Two of my favourite paintings, which are regularly on display in the Mcmanus, are included in the exhibition. FCB Cadell’s The White Shirt (now retitled for PC purposes) and Ron Stenberg’s Twa Auld Wifies, Dundee 1982, which has an interesting, surprising story to tell.

“Lex Braes’ 1982 work Portrait Of

Syd Scroggie, the war veteran, poet and mountaineer, dominates the West Wall of the gallery. I personally think that the colourful, bold, rugged style of the painting captures Scroggie’s personality.

“Also included in the collection is Richard Wawro’s Winter 1966. He was born in Newport-on-tay in 1952 and amongst owners of his original works were Margaret Thatcher and Pope John Paul II.”

The exhibition will remain at Albert Square right up to the end of next year.