The Harnham Watercolours - Supporters of the Young Gallery

Edwin Young (1831-1913)

In advance of reopening on 20th May, we’re pleased to provide a preview of one of the exhibitions that will be starting then.

This virtual exhibition produced by John Bruce (Webby Foot) for the Young Gallery is in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. It is our first attempt to show an exhibition on-line providing people with access to the gallery and collections through technology….

The virtual gallery for this exhibition has now closed but you can view all the images individually here

I wonder what Edwin Young would have thought about the world we live in today?

Edwin Young was born in Salisbury in 1831 and lived most of his adult life at 32 High Street. In the 1911 census he was described as a ‘Gentleman of independent means’. It seems he had a generous heart and when he died, he left his estate to realise his vision – An Art Gallery for Salisbury to display his art work along with other artists. In today’s money his gift would have exceeded £2 million.

Sadly he never lived to see the completion of his Art Gallery in Chipper Lane, he died four months before the Gallery officially opened in July 1913. But his legacy lives on…. The original 1913 citation reads:

“TO THE CITZENS OF SALISBURY – OWNERS OF – THE EDWIN YOUNG PICTURE GALLERY“

As part of the exhibition I have included Sue Johnson research on Edwin Young as it provides a unique window into his life and Victorian Salisbury. The Gallery is very grateful for her diligent work. The result is an invaluable insight for us to read and enjoy. Thank you, Sue! Sue’s article can be found here.

The gallery was built adjacent to the Public Library in Chipper Lane but moved with the library in 1975 to a new build, more central, the old Corn Exchange, where the gallery is situated today.

In 1978 The Young Gallery was complimented by The John Creasey Museum, consisting of a collection of literary works, ephemera ad personal effects, written and owned by the crime and thriller writer John Creasey (1908-1973) who lived at New Hall. Besides holding his works the museum also had a focus on 20^th century art including contemporary works. Today the collection contains many important art works by local and national artists complementing the historic Young Collection.

The Galleries vision remains – ART FOR ALL – quite simple. We want as many people as possible to enjoy, appreciate and value ART. Be it a Blake engraving, a Young watercolour, a Constable etching, an exhibition of children’s art.

Your gallery and collections provide a unique opportunity to see the world through different eyes, they can provide pleasure, adding meaning and purpose to life.

We have tried to keep the online exhibition as simple as possible; it is a taster. I have included maps of Harnham from the 19^th and 20^th century in the hope that some of you may be able to help identify sites where the paintings were executed. Any feedback would be appreciated. Click the maps to view them full size.