Percy Kelly: Scene and Unseen

In Spring 2023 Chris Wadsworth, founder of Castlegate House Gallery and representative of the Percy Kelly estate, received a mysterious email asking if she would be interested in a film and a letter from an artist called Percy Kelly addressed to a gallery owner in Paris. Chris replied with caution; Percy died 30 years ago leaving nothing about ever being in Paris. The correspondent had not been able to watch the 8mm cinefilm footage, but the letter, signed and dated 1964, proved to be genuine.

What followed is an astonishing tale, which is still unfolding today.

The world premiere public screening of the 8mm footage will take place in the theatre’s Studio on Sat 13 April and Thu 18 April, including an introduction and Q&A with Chris Wadsworth, giving you the opportunity to learn more about Percy Kelly and the story behind this latest discovery.

The screening takes place as part of an extraordinary exhibition by arrangement with Chris Wadsworth for the benefit of Cumbria Theatre Trust (trading under the name Theatre by the Lake). The Percy Kelly: Scene and Unseen exhibition will showcase more then 50 paintings, drawings and original prints direct from the acclaimed West Cumbrian artist’s estate. Some of the works have also never been seen before, all are available for sale with proceeds donated to the theatre.

Entry to the exhibition is free. Tickets to the film screening are £17.50 (£12 for Access tickets).

Sales of exhibited works will open in person on Sat 30 March and online on Tue 2 April. Proceeds from sales will be donated to Cumbria Theatre Trust.

You can view the paintings online here on the Percy Kelly website. If you’re interested in purchasing a painting or print, please contact Chris Wadsworth direct through the website.

Traveller’s tip: An exhibition showing the works of L S Lowry, Percy Kelly, Geoffrey Bennett and Sheila Fell also takes place at The Beacon Museum, Whitehaven until 14 April. The newly reopened Shipping Bow Gallery at Maryport have a permanent display of Percy Kelly and William Mitchell. Castlegate House Gallery in Cockermouth have works by L S Lowry, Percy Kelly and Sheila Fell. A combination of exhibitions offers art lovers the perfect opportunity to make a Cumbrian tour of Northern artists this Spring.