News & Events ‘A tribute to Bonington’ by Darren Stevenson

An exhibition that pays homage to one of Nottingham's finest artists is on now at George Thornton Art. The exhibition honours the life and talent of the 19th Century artist Richard Parkes Bonington whose work would become synonymous with the Romantic Movement.

NOTTINGHAM based artist Darren Stevenson has created a collection of paintings that pay homage to one of our city’s greatest Romantics, Richard Parkes Bonington.

The Arnold boy, born in 1801, would become one of the greatest artists of his time and synonymous with the 19th Century Romantics movement that also included Nottingham’s own Lord Byron.

Bonington’s talent was clear from an early age, with his works exhibited at the Liverpool Academy aged just 11.The artist’s move to France launched his career, producing work for the Louvre in Paris and winning a Gold Medal at the 1824 Paris Salon alongside John Constable.

Artist Darren Stevenson said: “Bonington has always been a strong influence of mine, his works represent some of the finest by an English painter of the Romantic Movement.

“He’s a Nottingham boy like me and I would like to see him more celebrated, so this exhibition is my way of honouring Bonington and his contribution to English Art.”

The exhibition being held at George Thornton Art in Nottingham’s Flying Horse Walk is running this week until Saturday August 30 when the gallery will host an artist’s reception with Stevenson from 1pm – 4pm. 

Gallery director George Thornton said: “I have worked with Darren for many years now and his work never fails to impress.

“The ability he has to bring each piece to life with his play of shadow and light on canvas is simply breathtaking.”

“I’m passionate about supporting local artists. So when the opportunity to support local talent and pay homage to Nottingham’s cultural heritage arose, I knew I had to have it in my gallery.”