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Art exhibition at Hadleigh Old School showcases sights of Suffolk and beyond




An art exhibition highlighting the sights of south Suffolk and beyond enjoyed a strong opening weekend at Hadleigh Old School.

Around 160 people turned out to take in ‘Visions of Suffolk – Town and Country’, showcasing the works of Suffolk-born artist David Downes.

The show, which continues tomorrow, Saturday and Sunday, depicts iconic buildings and landscapes from around East Anglia, with many of the pieces up for sale.

Artist, David Downes pictured at his 'Vision of Suffolk' exhibition held at The Old School in Hadleigh..Pic - Richard Marsham. (59858875)
Artist, David Downes pictured at his 'Vision of Suffolk' exhibition held at The Old School in Hadleigh..Pic - Richard Marsham. (59858875)

Venue director Ian Grutchfield said: “I spoke to several visitors and the works were described as stunning, picturesque yet contemporary with special aerial angles, even vapour trails across the skies.

"People said it was a lot of fun to spot the local sights.

"The large picture of St Mary's Church sold to a Hadleigh resident.

The 'Vision of Suffolk' exhibition held at The Old School in Hadleigh. The exhibition shows many pieces by David Downes..Pic - Richard Marsham. (59858868)
The 'Vision of Suffolk' exhibition held at The Old School in Hadleigh. The exhibition shows many pieces by David Downes..Pic - Richard Marsham. (59858868)

"Other reservations included works of Snape where artist David Downes previously had a painting residency and some country views.

"Although the show is titled Visions of Suffolk, David has included a few works from over the border, such as Grayson Perry's A House for Essex in Wrabness.

"He was especially pleased to sell a picture of his home town of Manningtree.

Ian Grutchfield pictured at the 'Vision of Suffolk' exhibition held at The Old School in Hadleigh. The exhibition shows many pieces by David Downes..Pic - Richard Marsham. (59858877)
Ian Grutchfield pictured at the 'Vision of Suffolk' exhibition held at The Old School in Hadleigh. The exhibition shows many pieces by David Downes..Pic - Richard Marsham. (59858877)

"Of course, many works remain for sale and all the paintings are still available to view, with free entry to the gallery."