The University of Cumbria has opened a new arts exhibition in Carlisle showcasing the works of some of its staff from past and present.

The University of Cumbria Institute of Education, Arts & Society is welcoming visitors to its Arts@60 past and present staff exhibition at its Brampton Road campus in the border city. 

The exhibition takes place in the Vallum Gallery and features a small selection of the many talented academic and technical staff that have taught thousands of students over many decades.

Exhibitors include Tony Peart, senior lecturer in illustration, who over 40 years has been an educator, painter, researcher, public lecturer, author, craftsperson and collector.

News and Star: Tony PeartTony Peart (Image: University of Cumbria)

His paintings start life as abstract improvisations which frequently evolve into figurative imagery – they imply a story for the viewer to create. 

Rowan Lear, lecturer in photography, is exhibiting a series of photographic images entitled learning to see - a scattering of impressions from a season spent observing a small patch of land in the grounds of a public garden.

Senior technician in printmaking, Natalie Shaw, creates collagraph prints from the lines, marks and forms found in the landscape. 

News and Star: Ceramics artist Gwen Bainbridge, who worked at Cumbria College of Art and Design, now University of CumbriaCeramics artist Gwen Bainbridge, who worked at Cumbria College of Art and Design, now University of Cumbria (Image: University of Cumbria)

Jan Beadle left in 2010 to concentrate full-time on making and exhibiting her own work and is showcasing a series of her handwoven scarves and shawls.

 Jan Kelsey was a student in the first cohort of BA (Hons) Fine Art in 1994 prior to an 18-year career as a lecturer, latterly in foundation art and design. Her mixed media work ‘Ghost Family’ is from her Ambassador series who are individuals who inhabit their own spaces.

Dr Ruth Harrison-Palmer, director of the institute of Education, Arts and Society said: "In 1963 we opened the doors of the main building of our Brampton Road campus and since then, have delivered a range of art and design programmes that, over time, have adapted to reflect changing markets.

"This exhibition showcases the diverse skills and techniques of our staff, from studio based creative disciplines to advanced technologies."

Arts@60 runs from Monday February 5 until Friday March 12 and is open 10am until 4pm daily (weekdays).