Mary Beale, (b 1633, m 1652, d 1699) England’s first professional female painter, is coming back 357 years to her home town on Saturday 13 June, allowing visitors to Moyses Hall Museum in Bury St Edmunds to discover more about her life.
Played by Dawn Perkiss, an accomplished actress and social history teacher, Mary Beale will spend the day in residence, entertaining children from 11am to midday with a tour of the current exhibition (which includes several pieces of her work), and joining them in drawing and portraits, all included in the normal admission.
From 2pm to 3.30pm she offers an intimate portrayal of her personal side, discussing her life against the backdrop of her paintings. The cost for the afternoon, including refreshments, is £5.50 adults and £5 concessions. Booking is advised for both events.
This event forms part of the ‘Women by Women’ exhibition showing at Moyse’s Hall. St Edmundsbury Heritage Service houses the largest collection of her paintings in public ownership. Approximately half of this collection is currently on display. The exhibition is open between 10am and 5pm (last entry 4pm). Entry is £3 adults, £2 children, £9 family. Free entry to St Edmundsbury residents. For further details contact Moyse’s Hall on 01284 706183 or see www.moyseshall.org.
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Issued by: Gill Hawkins, Heritage Officer, St Edmundsbury Borough Council. Phone: 01284 706183 Email: gill.hawkins@stedsbc.gov.uk
