Local artists pop up to celebrate ‘the spirit of Buckland’

From 17 June to 17 July local artists will be handed the keys to Buckland Abbey, near Yelverton, as the team at Drake’s former home collaborate with Devon Art Pop to celebrate ‘the spirit of Buckland’.

Inspired by what makes Buckland Abbey special, nine artists have produced over 30 pieces of work which will be going on display in the Abbey for a month. Highlights include paintings by Theresa Shaw, stainless and copper creations by Alan Prince and a collection of poems written by Chaz Arnold; better known as The Paignton Poet.

Speaking about the exhibition, Visitor Experience Officer Richard Burrow said: ‘Over the last few years, Buckland Abbey has really been building its reputation as a place to come and see some outstanding pieces of art. With a Rembrandt and an early portrait of Francis Drake, this is a rare opportunity for these local artists to have their work exhibited alongside some very important pieces of art.’

For the last year, the staff, volunteers and visitors to Buckland Abbey have worked together to produce a ‘spirit of place’ statement for the property. Now complete, this statement will be used to influence how Buckland Abbey looks in the future. This exhibition in collaboration with Devon Art Pop signals the first of many exciting exhibitions planned over the next couple of years.

All pieces exhibited around the property by Devon Art Pop are for sale and sit alongside existing parts of Buckland Abbey’s historic collection.

Photo Caption: ‘Looking back’ one of the paintings by Theresa Shaw, on show at Buckland Abbey Credit: Theresa Shaw