I was delighted to be invited to the opening night of Rosemary Tolkien’s art collection launch at Stamford Arts Centre—a wonderful evening celebrating her work in a beautiful setting. The venue holds a special place in my heart, reminding me of childhood visits with my Nana, exploring art exhibitions before heading into the cinema or stopping for a bite to eat at the café.
From January 28th to February 8th, Stamford Arts Centre presents a truly unique exhibition by local artist Rosemary Tolkien. Titled 'Stamford, Fantasy and Reality', this collection features a captivating series of surreal paintings that transform the familiar town into a fantastical playground. In this creative collection, iconic Stamford landmarks are reimagined with whimsical elements such as water parks, tropical forests and even mythical monsters, showcasing Rosemary's remarkable ability to blend reality with fantasy.
The exhibition offers a wonderful sense of escapism, inviting you to immerse yourself in a playful, imaginative world that is sure to bring a smile to anyone who experiences it.
Rosemary Tolkien, a Rutland resident and former secondary school teacher, is best known for her architectural paintings, which capture the unique charm of Stamford's most iconic buildings. A fine art graduate, Rosemary works primarily with emulsion and acrylic paints. Colour and shape take centre stage and her paintings often explore the quality of light, with striking reflections in windows and water.
This exhibition is celebrating Rosemary Tolkien’s architectural studies that celebrate Stamford’s architectural beauty with a surreal twist. These imaginative pieces transform Stamford into a fantastical scene—monsters, water parks and tropical plants. Offering a whimsical take on the town’s most recognisable landmarks.
Whether you are already an admirer of Rosemary Tolkien’s work or discovering her creations for the first time, this exhibition offers a fresh and inspiring perspective on Stamford, filled with fun and lighthearted charm. Best of all, original pieces from the collection can be purchased directly from the exhibition, with prices starting as low as £250—an opportunity to take home a unique piece of local art.
Exhibition Details:
Dates: January 28th - February 8th
Location: Stamford Arts Centre, PE9 2DL
For more information, visit the Stamford Arts Centre website.
