Winchester church to host lecture series by renowned artists

The series, Art @ St Bart’s, including a host of prominent artists, is the initiative of Master Glass Engraver Tracey Sheppard, and will raise money for the church’s refurbishment.

The inaugural lecture series last year featured artists with a personal link to Hyde, with this year’s edition set to develop the connection.

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Ms Sheppard has invited artists whose work offers a contemporary take on the ancient crafts of stone carving, stained glass and pottery.

The church boasts historical significance having been founded by the Benedictine monks of the great medieval Hyde Abbey in 1110.

The event will begin on Thursday, April 18 with a lecture by Master Carver Simon Smith, who has held positions such as President of The Master Carvers’ Association and Master Elect of the Art Workers’ Guild.

On Thursday, May 16, Helen Whittaker MA FMGP, will discuss her stained glass work.

Ms Whittaker’s work includes a collaboration with esteemed artist David Hockney on the Queen’s Window in Westminster Abbey in 2018.

The lecture series concludes on Thursday, June 13, with a talk from Past Master of the Art Workers’ Guild, Prue Cooper, who is known for her slipware dishes, having initially trained as a painter.

Tickets can be booked online at www.threesaints.org.uk/art.