‘Hewing Out the Image’: Collingwood College welcomes David Venables art exhibition

By Verity Newbery

Prominent artist from the North East, David Venables, is showcasing his work at an exhibition in Collingwood College this term.

The exhibition, called ‘Hewing Out the Image,’ is to be held in Collingwood College from 10th of November to 8th of December. There will be an opening preview on the 10th of November at 6:30pm with a buffet provided.

Prepare to view a range of art, portraying the life he might have led and also domestic simplicities at this exhibition. It is exciting for Durham University to showcase such a talent with prominent and personal ties to the North East.

David Venables said, “As a child of a mining family from Wigan to Northumberland and southwards to Yorkshire, like the generation of hewers in the family, my tribute to them all and the sacrifice they gave is my acknowledgement and love through this simple exhibition of a journeyman hewer of paint and line.”

The exhibition is based on Venables’s recollections from his childhood in the North East in the 1940’s and up to his life in the present day. This will include his early teenage works and a collection of paintings and drawings. As Venables now approaches the age of 80, there will be decades worth of incredible work to enjoy.

The exhibition is about family and people. With Venables referring to the subjects of his paintings as ‘my people,’ highlighting the influence of his personal life.

David Venables uses the black pigment from coal for his paintings, providing a physical and emotional link to his heritage

Drawing on his experience of growing up in a mining community, coal is an important component in his art. He uses the black pigment from coal for his paintings, providing a physical and emotional link to his heritage.

At the time of Venables childhood, opportunities were often very limited for working-class men in the North East. However, Venables pursued his artistic talents and at age 14 enrolled at Doncaster Arts School. He was then able to complete his studies at the Central School of Art and Design, in London.

The exhibition is open to everyone on the 11th and 12th of November between 10am and 10pm. From the 13th of November onwards, you will need to book an appointment with Collingwood Reception. Call 0191 334 5000 or email cwd.reception@durham.ac.uk to book.

Image: Bedoyere via Wikimedia Commons