All in the family

John Henry Lorimer exhibition presented by great niece

AN EXHIBITION dedicated to Scottish artist John Henry Lorimer (1856-1936) is already open at The City Art Centre (CAC).

When the artist's works were displayed at Kirkcaldy Galleries and at the CAC members of the public said these were their favourite paintings in the galleries' permanent collections. Lorimer's “Grandmother's Birthday” also known as “Bénédicte” was the first painting by a Scottish artist bought by the French Government. The painting, usually stored at the Musée d'Orsay, will be displayed along with one of the chairs which it features.

There is an audioguide presented by the exhibition co-curator Charlotte Lorimer (pictured left) who is the artist's great niece. It includes dramatised readings of family letters and memoirs, performed by Clive Russell, George Lorimer, Ed Wade, Natasha Jobst and Sarah Haynes. It also includes twelve original poems by Christine de Luca, each inspired by a different painting by John Henry Lorimer and original music by Delilah Montagu.

Culture and Communities

Convener Cllr Donald Wilson, said: “I'm delighted that the

City Art Centre is able to showcase this fantastic exhibition of the rarely seen works of John Henry Lorimer. It's incredible to think this is the first exhibition dedicated to him since his passing in 1936. Reflections: The light and life of John Henry Lorimer will take visitors on a journey of his work through five themes of light, identity, family, femininity and home. Not only will it be an opportunity to celebrate his work, there are pieces from both public and private collections, the majority of which have not been on public display in decades.”

Culture and Communities Vice-Convener Cllr Amy McNeese-Mechan said: “We're excited to be exhibiting the first retrospective of John Henry's work. A technically gifted, but somewhat forgotten artist, this is a chance for audiences to discover his work and learn about the artist himself and the role he played in Scottish art history. Alongside the exhibition there will be a programme of events and we look forward to revealing more details soon.”

Reflections: The light and life of John Henry Lorimer at the City Art Centre until 20 March. Admission is free