Norman Bragg Studio, Aylesbury
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There will be an opportunity to view the exhibition in full from 6.45pm – 7.30pm whilst you enjoy a complimentary welcome drink* on our promenade, before a seated presentation by Peter starting at 7.30pm, where he will deliver an insightful talk about the residency and the resultant paintings, followed by a live painting demonstration.
During the evening, he will not only explain the thinking and reasons behind some of the work, giving it context within art history but he will also describe and demonstrate some his techniques and painting processes.
“Peter was probably the best demonstrator our art society has welcomed for many years and certainly the best portrait demonstrator I have ever seen…I promise you won’t be disappointed and I guarantee you the quiet pleasure of witnessing a very talented man performing at the pinnacle of his game.” - Rickmansworth Art Society
*Ticket includes a complimentary glass of prosecco on arrival.
About the Residency
In late 2019, Peter was commissioned by Aylesbury Waterside Theatre to create a series of paintings to celebrate the theatre’s 10th birthday. The aim of the residency was to produce a body of work which reflected all areas of theatre life. From actors performing on stage to the backstage crew awaiting their cue; the selling of ice-creams to the busy bar during the interval - Peter, with sketchbook in hand, went to capture it all.
However in March 2020, just a couple of months into the residency, the theatre was closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic and thus, the residency was halted. What was once a bustling building full of life, movement and colour, went dark.
By twist of fate, Peter has poignantly captured the theatre industry pre, during and post-pandemic. His work reflects an era in the industry never experienced before. The venue's last few months before Covid 19 were thriving - sold out pantomime performances, buzzing backstage corridors, packed bars and a programme full of productions and events. Peter painted the theatre's last standing concert, 24 hours before the government closure announcement in March 2020. He revisited the venue during their period of closure, when only a single staff member was working in the venue, maintaining the sleeping building.
Since the theatre re-opened in September 2021, Peter has returned to continue telling the story of the theatre and to add to the collection of residency paintings.
Theatre Director Sophie Denney says: “Peter’s spirit and commitment to this project has been overwhelming and inspiring. We feel an immense sense of pride as we reflect on 10 years of providing diverse theatre and community events, and Peter’s artistry is proving to be a fitting tribute to our exceptional industry and the teams who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure every visitor has an enjoyable experience.”
Norman Bragg Studio, Aylesbury
Norman Bragg Studio hosts a programme of intimate productions and events throughout the year including a monthly Comedy Club, regular screenings, Bring Your Own Baby Comedy and small scale shows and live music gigs. The Studio is easily accessible with a bar selling a range of light refreshments and facilities available within easy reach.
One of the venue’s hireable spaces, the Norman Bragg Studio is licensed for wedding ceremonies and ideal for accommodating conferences, exhibitions, dinners and private events.
Norman Bragg Studio, Aylesbury
With an ATG+ membership, you can enjoy a host of exclusive benefits across 35+ ATG venues
