Thanks to the enthusiasm of a core group of residents, the Rottingdean Preservation Society was formed to preserve the charm and elegance of this stately house.
Locals and visitors alike can enjoy a wonderful array of art and artefacts in its spacious first floor gallery.
In 1992 The Grange faced final ruination. The Preservation Society was formed under the chairmanship of John Commin, as a last bid rescue. John had seen an exhibition of artists’ work in the Whiteway Centre spearheaded by local artist Barry Hinchliff. John approached Barry to run the Grange Art Gallery and Barry agreed and promptly set to work, along with others, upgrading the tired looking space.
On October 2nd 1993, a grand re-opening exhibition of works by 20 artists including oil paintings by Barry, pencil drawings by Mick Bensley, a pastel by the late Mike Jerrome were proudly shown. Also exhibiting was Ned Hoskins, who had created the first Artist Open House trail as The Fiveways Group in 1982. An auspicious re-opening indeed!
In October 2012 Barry Hinchliff retired and handed over to artist Amanda Davidson. With a new team of dedicated volunteers, The Grange Art Gallery and Museum yet again has undertaken a renovation project with a new look upgrade as befitting its status as an important space for artists, both professional and student alike and in celebration of those past artists and authors who lived and created works of art for posterity.
An exciting new schedule of 17 pre booked exhibitions for 2013 includes : “Celebration of Love” a photographic exhibition of home baking by Miranda Harwood, a group exhibition of students’ work from classes at The Whiteway Centre, the local camera group and visiting artists from London and Sardinia.
May and December will see The Grange affiliated to the Brighton Festival Artist Open House trail, with exhibitions of local artists’ work. From abstract to traditional, craft to sculpture the world of art and the artists rule supreme. Stewards also play a very important part in the running of the gallery.
Please contact Amanda at the Grange 01273 301004 if you are interested in exhibiting your art or if you wish to become a steward.
