The collection, called ‘Paula Rego: Visions of English Literature,’ was shown to a select audience on January 29.
The event was an exclusive preview of the internationally recognised Portuguese-British artist’s distinctive printmaking style.
The public can now visit the exhibition until May 10.
Rego, celebrated as a major figure in contemporary printmaking, utilises themes from folklore, fairy tales, classic literature, and nursery rhymes in her art.
Her exhibition at The Wilson Art Gallery showcases three major series of her work: Nursery Rhymes, Peter Pan, and Jane Eyre.
These were all produced over ten years of the artist’s career.
Alongside the prints, the exhibition also opens a window into Rego’s creative world, displaying personal items like rarely seen preparatory sketches, etching plates, and her childhood copy of Peter Pan.
These artefacts provide fresh insights into the artist’s lifelong passion for literature and the transformation of this interest into unique artwork.
Rego’s prints encompass a broad range of themes, from nursery rhymes to intense narratives from Jane Eyre, effectively blending fantasy, imagination, innocence, and often harsh realities to narrate intricate stories, primarily focussing on the female experience.
The free exhibition also boasts a public events programme, with activities designed to engage the Cheltenham secondary school community.
In addition to Rego’s works, the gallery will feature ‘Whispers On The Wall’, an immersive exhibition running until May 31.
This project involves community participation to create a growing installation inspired by storytelling and imagination.
Other events include artist-led holiday clubs, a make-your-own fairy tale book event, a family-friendly picture trail, and a drama workshop for home-educating families.
A guided tour with Senior Curator Layla Gatens will also be available, along with various family-friendly workshops.
The events may interest creative families and people of all ages.
There will also be an informal family-friendly workshop for families on April 11.
Additionally, a history of art lecture on May 9 will focus on women artists in the 20th and 21st centuries, making use of Rego’s influence.
