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Forty years after she first visited West Cornwall as a child, Estelle
Morris returned on Tuesday morning in her capacity as Arts Minister for
a visit to the Newlyn Gallery.
And the minister, who was greeted by gallery director Liz Knowles, admitted
to having first paid an early morning visit to Mousehole, where she originally
holidayed with her family. "I couldn't resist a look at Mousehole
again," she said. "I have such fond memories of my childhood
holiday there. It was lovely to be back."
Ms Morris was following in the tradition of former arts ministers by
visiting the gallery and viewing the art of local painters and sculptors.
She was introduced to Rose Barnecut, arts officer for Penwith Council
and Charles Hancock, chairman of the council of management at Newlyn Art
Gallery.
They showed her architect models of the proposed gallery extension and
the development plans for the Old Telephone Exchange in Penzance. Both
projects have recently received planning permission and Objective 1 funding.
Ms Morris was told that nearly £2 million had so far been secured,
with £400,000 still to be found.
Liz Knowles told her: "We have just been informed that we have been
awarded more Objective 1 funding than we at first thought and now have
all the applications in place for the remainder."
Ms Morris said: "This is a very exciting project and an essential
element in the regeneration proposals for Newlyn and Penzance and I wish
you every success."
She added: "This is a lovely gallery, full of light, and the extension
will give the building wonderful views across the bay."
The Minister was given a tour of the gallery, which is currently showing
works by members of the Newlyn Society of Artists.
She particularly liked a still life by Romi Behrens; Phil Whitings' Flanders
Field and an abstract work by Naomi Frears.
During the visit she met Esen Kaya, the gallery's education officer,
who explained the gallery's work with schools and colleges.
Rose Barnecut explained Penwith Council's support of the arts in the
district and how the proposed gallery projects would "extend the
platform" for both Cornish and international artists.
The Minister enjoyed a cup of coffee with staff members before leaving
the gallery for a visit to Falmouth's National Maritime Museum.
article copyright © THE CORNISHMAN
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