Art & Archaeology

31 Mar 2007

At Crown Studio Gallery, Rothbury 
31st March - 13th May 2007 

The Simonside Hills hold a special place in the hearts and minds of the people who live in their shadow. That characteristic profile is almost iconic, dominating the landscape of Coquetdale and acting as a distinctive landmark for miles around.

It's not difficult to imagine that it must always have been an important place for local inhabitants. In his recent book, "In the Valley of The Sacred Mountain", archaeologist Paul Frodsham speculates on what it may have been like to have lived here in the very distant past. Based on contemporary reassessment of evidence accumulated during his excavations, he argues that Simonside may well have been of immense cultural significance to local communities- perhaps functioning as a sacred mountain throughout prehistoric times. This radical new theory is exciting the interest of local historians and academics alike.

"Simonside, Sacred Mountain" the new exhibition at Crown Studio Gallery in Bridge Street Rothbury was inspired by the publication of this book and is a unique collaboration between, Painter Lynda Taylor, Potter Graham Taylor and Archaeologist Paul Frodsham. This Exhibition featuring paintings of Simonside by professional Rothbury artist, Lynda Taylor; contemporary ceramics and accurate reconstructions of locally excavated ceramic vessels by Graham Taylor, opens on Saturday 31st March and runs until 13th May. Paul Frodsham will give a talk and book signing at the Jubilee Hall on Thursday 12th April at 7-30pm which will be followed by a private view of the exhibition. Admission to both venues is Free of Charge.

Says Lynda, "Creating this collection of paintings has been the perfect excuse to put on my hiking boots and get out and visit some places I havenÕt seen for years."

For more information:

Graham & Lynda Taylor
Crown Studio
Bridge Street
Rothbury
Northumberland
NE65 7SE
UK

Phone: 01669 622890

Email: gallery@crownstudio.co.uk

Web: www.crownstudio.co.uk