April 2008
Dorset County Museum has acquired a key collection of three portraits by George Romney (1734-1802), one of England’s most important 18th Century painters. The works, which were on temporary loan to the museum and in danger of being sold abroad, have been secured thanks to a Heritage Lottery Fund (HLF) grant.
The £179,500 award will be used to open a new exhibition revealing the life histories of Thomas Rackett the Younger (1756 - 1840) and his parents. Thomas Rackett is regarded as an iconic figure in Dorset following his groundbreaking work in the fields of archaeology, geology and natural history in the county and across the South West.
HLF’s support will ensure that the paintings become part of a permanent collection of items belonging to Thomas Rackett at Dorset County Museum. The collection includes a Greek coin collection, personal drawings, domestic items, and an array of archive material which will illustrate the important historical connection he had with Dorset. The Museum has been undertaking a series of fundraising activities and working with the Art Fund who have also pledged a £55,000 grant for the paintings.
Julie Cooper, HLF Regional Manager for the South West said; “These major works by George Romney have huge significance for Dorset and the communities of the South West. The acquisition of the paintings will make a huge contribution to Dorset County Museum’s wonderful collections and enable visitors to further understand the history behind the collection itself. The preservation of these works will mean that local people will be able to continue to enjoy and explore their heritage for many generations to come."
Judy Lindsay, Dorset County Museum Director expressed her enthusiasm; “We are absolutely delighted that the campaign to keep these fabulous portraits in Dorset has been successful. The paintings will be displayed in Dorset County Museum for future generations and we look forward to running an inspirational programme of related events and exhibitions over the coming year.”
The exhibition will open up a wealth of opportunities for the public to get involved, including lectures and workshops. An experienced community artist will hold six workshops to encourage local people in having their own self portraits done and issue Artist Trading Cards of these portraits to as an incentive for community participation in this project.