The Athenaeum Unveils Historic Liverpool Art as part of Exhibition Collaboration with Smithdown Social Arts Hub

LIVERPOOL, UK. 23rd August, 2024 - Smithdown Social Arts Hub, in collaboration with The Athenaeum, is proud to announce an exciting heritage-focused addition to its upcoming local artist exhibition. As part of this unique project, previously unseen works by historic Liverpool artists, such as James Brierley (1783–1814) and William Gawin Herdman (1805–1882), will be on display at the public exhibition.

In addition to contemporary local artists, this exhibition will highlight significant works from The Athenaeum’s private collection, focusing on Liverpool’s rich artistic past. Two heritage highlights will include artwork by James Brierley, a noted portraitist and landscape painter of the early 19th century, and William Gawin Herdman, famed for his depictions of Liverpool’s evolving cityscape, who both played pivotal roles in capturing the essence of Liverpool during their lifetimes.

These artworks, carefully preserved within The Athenaeum’s private collection, have remained relatively unseen by the general public—until now. This exhibition provides a rare opportunity to explore Liverpool’s history through the eyes of two of its most prominent historic artists.

The exhibition will not only celebrate these historic figures but will also create a dialogue between past and present by juxtaposing their work with pieces by contemporary local artists. This interplay between old and new showcases Liverpool’s ongoing artistic evolution and underscores the city’s longstanding cultural significance.

"This is a truly special moment for art and art history lovers in Liverpool," said Brenda Monahan, Director at Smithdown Social Arts Hub. "The opportunity to include the works of James Brierley and William Gawin Herdman, alongside today’s talented local artists, allows us to reflect on the city’s enduring artistic legacy."

 “We are excited to share with the city region important pieces of historic artwork held within the Athenaeum’s collection, to do this alongside stunning contemporary pieces will provide a unique experience. As an organisation we are committed to providing managed access and showcasing items of significant heritage from our collection, and this leap towards access and engagement alongside partners Smithdown Social Arts Hub looks to be a memorable step in our history,” said Roger Phillips, Chair of The Athenaeum.

 Event Highlights include:

The exhibition will also give members of the public the opportunity to enjoy refreshments in the historic Newsroom, where many important historical discussions on Liverpool’s business and artistic heritage have taken place. The Newsroom has an incredible collection of portraits, some on loan from the Walker Art Gallery and other historic artefacts of interest on display.

The art and heritage exhibition will be open to the public on most Thursday and Friday evenings from 6-9pm starting September 13th. Ticket price includes one refreshment at the Newsroom bar as well as access to the art and heritage exhibitions on display. Book tickets at Eventbrite: https://shorturl.at/4RVkE 

The first exhibition will launch on Thursday September 12th with a special opening event featuring live music, refreshments, and opportunities to meet the artists. Members of the press are invited to attend this exclusive event. Please RSVP to concierge@theathenaeum.org.uk.

The exhibition will open to the general public on September 13th. If you wish to attend this event as a buyer please RSVP to hello@smithdownsocial.co.uk.