An exhibition showcasing the jewel in Teesside’s crown goes on show this week.
Acclaimed local artist Eamonn McGovern’s paintings capture Middlesbrough’s diversity, from its rich industrial heritage to the art works and buildings pointing to the future.
The ‘Best of Boro’ exhibition is formally launched on Thursday, September 8 at 3.30pm, on Platform 1 at Middlesbrough Railway Station.
A further five pictures will be on display from tomorrow at Gallery TS1 on Corporation Road as part of the City at Heart initiative.
Eamonn has produced a special series of paintings celebrating the very best of Middlesbrough as part of the town’s on-going bid for city status and to mark the centenary of Teesside’s iconic Transporter Bridge next month.
The artist asked the public to tell him what makes the town great – hence a series of paintings which range from Temenos and the Avenue of Trees to the Hairy Lemon and Boro Pizza.
Eamonn has worked as a professional artist for more than 30 years since completing a Masters degree at the Royal College of Art in 1978.
Working from studios on Teesside, Eamonn is also an active member of the Platform Arts studio group based at Middlesbrough Railway Station whose aim is to bring contemporary art and craft to a wider audience.
Tomorrow’s launch will feature afternoon tea followed by brief speeches and a chance to view the original paintings and poster sites on both platforms.
Eamonn said: “Middlesbrough has been a great home to me as an artist and provided a lot of inspiration for my work over the years. I think the bid for city status is a great idea so I wanted to do something to help.
“People often don’t think about the cultural side of Middlesbrough, they just think about the industry and yet there is so much unique architecture in the area. I wanted to capture the beauty and personality of our town and I think this series of paintings does that.”
Councillor Charlie Rooney, Middlesbrough Council’s Executive Member for Regeneration and Economic Development, said: “Middlesbrough is recognised for its industrial heritage, but we have also produced many great artists.
“They’re never short of inspiration and great subject matter, and this terrific exhibition by Eamonn encapsulates that perfectly.
“His pictures show a great fondness and understanding of the town’s past alongside an appreciation of and genuine enthusiasm for the direction it is now taking.”
