By Discover Shropshire & Telford, 07 November 2016, 14:28PM
Weston Park, the stately home on the Shropshire \ Staffordshire border is holding an exhibition in the Granary Art Gallery of Matthew Wood’s stunning Capability Brown inspired artworks.
Matthew’s artwork using gouache on board depicts a view of the landscape of Weston Park from the perspective of the inside of the House.
Matthew focuses on the interiors of grand country houses, including Weston, depicting the richness of the rooms and seeing the landscape through the windows. His exhibition will demonstrate the view of the Capability Brown landscape from inside the formal structure of the House.
Gareth Williams, Curator and Head of Learning says, “Matthew has shown his dedication to the project, regularly visiting the House throughout the year in order to capture the Park throughout the seasons. He has reproduced the world of Capability Brown from the inside, out.”
Matthew appreciates the influence of the Arcadian, classical landscape in Capability Brown’s work, the way that large forms such as trees can be used to frame a distant view. Matthew says, “Capability Brown may not have seen this himself but it is certainly evident with what you see at Weston Park and other properties now that the landscapes have fully matured.”
The project began from Matthew’s interest in the challenge of connecting the House with the gardens. All works have a suggestion of the outside either through a window or a distant reflection.
As well as capturing glimpses of green through the window, Matthew has also painted rooms that show the inner workings of the House such as the kitchen, staff corridor, the Housekeeper’s office and the flower room.
The exhibition coincides with the celebrations of Capability Brown’s 300th birthday this year.
