A collection of world class art is being exhibited in Chester.
The Wesley Church Centre on St John Street is showcasing the artwork, regarded as the finest outside of the Vatican, from the Methodist Church’s collection of Modern Christian Art in its ‘In the Image’ exhibition as part of its bicentennial anniversary celebrations.
More than 650 primary school pupils from 14 schools across the area will visit the exhibition, where works on display will include those by a host of famed artists including Graham Sutherland, Edward Burra and Elisabeth Frink, as well as numerous other notable 20th century painters.
Missionary development officer at the centre, Andrew Herbert, said: “The collection is top notch and extremely significant in terms of the names on show.
“In terms of Modern Christian Art, the collection is widely regarded as one of the finest outside of the Vatican itself.
“We are privileged to have been able to bring it to Chester and make it available for people in the area to come and see.
“The response so far has been great and we have had people come and tell us that they will be returning to see the paintings and bringing their friends along with them.”
The exhibition has inspired GCSE art students from across Chester to get involved, with their own art pieces inspired by the collection going on display at a special event at the University of Chester next year.
Prof Neil Grant, head of Fine Art at the University of Chester, who helped plan the exhibition, said: “In the Image provides a rare opportunity to view art of this quality in Chester, and it is great to see such a high level of participation from schools and the wider community.”
The exhibition is open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4pm, until October 27.