Brill-iant Art at Kingston Museum
Kingston University Illustration students have recently been competing to have their work included in Kingston Museum's prestigious 'Brill' Collection. The Collection, started in the 1950s by Reginald Brill, Head of the former Kingston School of Art (now part of the University), consists mainly of paintings of sites and buildings in the Borough at risk or disappeard due to modern development.
The students have been busy during 2002 recording three sites, London Road, The Telephone Exchange in Birkenhead Avenue and the Filter Beds in Portsmouth Road, with a view to having their work included in the Collection.
The original Collection covered a great period of change in the Borough, from 1955 to 1971. Although Reginald Brill did not himself contribute paintings to the Collection, many of his staff in the School of Art did, and a number had distinguished careers. However, it was Brill's enthusiasm, energy and commitment that ensured the success of the scheme over so many years. Sadly the project lapsed in 1971. But with particular encouragement from Chairman, John McCarthy, the Museum Friends revived the scheme in 1997.
Of the present competition, John McCarthy, on behalf of the Friends said I am delighted that Kingston University's Illustration Students continue to be involved in this exciting scheme to record Kingston's heritage. The Friends are grateful to Brian Love, their tutor, for all the hard work he has put in to make the project so successful, and to Russell-Cooke Solicitors for their continued support.
The Judges included a representative each from the University, Kingston Council's Cultural Services Overview Panel, Kingston Museum, the Museum Friends and the Kingston upon Thames Society.
The winners of the 2002 competition are Fiona Sansom, Adam Relph and Richard Merritt. All receive a cash prize at the presentation on 30th January 2003.
January 2003