Exhibition celebrating Libby Edmondson to be held at Rheged

For the first time in more than 20 years, Libby’s work will be seen together in the most extensive exhibition of her work to date.

From sculpture to weaving, embroidery to ceramics, pastels to paintings, this exhibition - co-curated by Rheged, Libby’s husband Nigel and youngest son Rick - encompasses the full breadth of Libby’s work and her creativity in all its forms.

Libby Edmondson sadly passed away in December 2022 (Image: Archive)Libby is renowned for her unique interpretation of Lake District landscapes, which she painted with accuracy to ensure it was instantly recognisable, but gave them a contemporary feel through a very powerful use of vibrant colour.

Libby produced some 270 paintings during her life, over 50 of which will be displayed together in this exhibition, for the first time, due to generous loans and recently-discovered work.

Libby was well known for her Lake District paintings (Image: Supplied)Nigel Edmondson, Libby’s husband said: “I was delighted to be approached by Rheged with the idea of hosting a major Libby Edmondson retrospective.

“This is a fitting tribute and celebration of a creative, talented and beautiful artist who was at the peak of her powers when she died.

“She excelled in every discipline she explored, never ran out of ideas and still had so much to give.”

The exhibition will reveal the story of Libby’s life, her inspiration and provide an insight into how Libby created her artwork through films of her painting, quotes, photography and original artwork.

Scafell Pike (Image: Supplied)It will include a re-creation of Libby’s studio which was in the garden of her home in Levens, near Kendal, plus a rare opportunity to see 'The Final Piece' Libby was working on before her passing in December 2022.

Libby’s paintings have been showcased in prestigious exhibitions, including the Mall Galleries in London.

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Claire Harrison, gallery manager and co-curator said: “This has been one of the most enjoyable exhibitions I have worked on because of the scope of Libby’s work from textiles, sculpture and paintings, as well as the fascinating stories behind each one.

“We are very grateful to both Nigel and Rick who have provided extensive materials which will really help illuminate both how Libby produced her artwork and a personal insight into Libby the person – 'a lady who was always doing'."

There will also be an opportunity to buy some of Libby’s work alongside a wide selection of limited edition prints available on paper and canvas, a 2024 calendar, cards and candles.