I am delighted to have been invited to speak at a special event being held by the Harris Museum and Art Gallery next month.

Over the past few months the Preston Gallery has been celebrating 70 years since they purchased one of their most popular paintings – Pauline in the Yellow Dress by Sir James Gunn. Described as ‘The Mona Lisa of 1944,’ the painting of the artist’s wife caused a real sensation when it was first exhibited at the Royal Academy and has wowed visitors to the Harris since.

Brochure for the 70 Years of Pauline at the Harris Museum & Art Gallery Exhibition

70 Years of Pauline at the Harris Museum & Art Gallery

The portrait is one that I find particularly inspirational and it will be a real privilege to be involved in the celebrations.

Gary Armer at a viewing of the inspirational Pauline in the Yellow Dress

Recent viewing of the inspirational Pauline in the Yellow Dress

I recently enjoyed viewing 70 Years of Pauline with expert members of the Harris team who helped provide a fascinating insight into the works on display. The exhibition features other splendid portraits of Pauline painted during different stages of Gunn’s career, presenting a unique opportunity to view them alongside the iconic Pauline in the Yellow Dress. The exhibition runs until 28th February 2015 and is not to be missed.

Gary Armer viewing the 70 Years of Pauline Exhibition

Appreciating the fantastic work of Sir James Gunn in the 70 Years of Pauline Exhibition

Friends of the Harris Museum & Art Gallery

The 70 Years of Pauline exhibition and associated events have been supported by the gallery’s charity, the Friends of the Harris Museum & Art Gallery. The Friends of the Harris members help support the work of the Gallery and Museum and in turn benefit from opportunities to meet curators and artists, receive invitations to private views, enjoy discount in the Harris Shop & Café and much more.

The event that I will be speaking at on Wednesday 25th February is an exclusive event for Friends’ members and their guests. To join the Friends and find out more about other benefits of becoming a member visit the Gallery website. You can also learn more of what the Friends of the Harris Museum & Art Gallery have been up to in their blog: friendsoftheharris.tumblr.com

Thanks to Hilary Machell (@HilaryMachell) at the Harris (@HarrisPreston) for permission to use the photographs from my visit.

Exterior of the Harris Museum & Art Gallery, Preston, Lancashire

The Harris Museum & Art Gallery, Preston, Lancashire