EVESHAM Civic Society has launched a fundraising campaign to support the restoration of the Almonry Museum and Heritage Centre with the sale of a pair of limited edition prints.
A 100 copies two watercolour and pen artworks depicting the front and back of the Grade I listed complex by Evesham artist Lesley Brockbank will be sold to support its repair project.
The 14th Century buildings are on the Heritage at Risk Register and need urgent attention to fix stonework, roof and timber frame. In March this year it was awarded £2,1,73,500 from the Government to help save it.
The idea to sell the prints was the civic society’s Brian Chilvers who had bought both the original paintings after they had been entered in competitions at the Vale of Evesham Arts Society annual exhibitions.
He has been a competition judge for 20 years and had awarded both works, first place in the best local scene category in separate years.
Brian said: “I bought the first picture in 2022 and when I saw the second one this year I thought I couldn’t let anyone else buy it as they make a perfect pair.
By selling the prints it is hoped that the society can raise between £5,000 and £10,000 to support the ongoing restoration works.
“We must do our bit to to help restore the Almonry. It’s a unique Grade l Listed building and the most important feature in the historic environs of Evesham. It must be preserved, “he added.
The Giclée prints produced by Iris Print of Hanley Swan cost £150 for a framed version using Evesham-based Roman Moor or £95 for mounted-only one.
Ashleigh Jayes, manager of the Almonry Museum and Tourist Information Centre, said: “We welcome the support from the civic society to help save these iconic buildings.
They are an important part of Evesham’s rich history and heritage and we hope that following our restoration programme they will be around for another 600 years for visitors to enjoy.
“The prints are beautiful and we are grateful that Lesley has given her permission to reproduce them.”
The artworks will be on display at the Almonry shop throughout the summer.
To order a print contact Gill Pawson at [email protected] or 07801 846049.
