Following the highly successful and popular Radev exhibition, The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum celebrates the power of abstract art with its new exhibition Into Abstraction, and the talent of the next generation of artists with its second piece, Natural Progression.

Natural Progression, which runs in the community art gallery until 27 October, is a collaboration with the University of Gloucestershire showcasing the high quality work of the 2024 creative arts degree show. The selection of pieces blend architecture, fine art and natural forms with future facing designs.

Through a partnership with The Hepworth Wakefield and Gallery Pangolin, The Wilson brings Into Abstraction to Cheltenham, an exhibition exploring the evolution of abstract arts during sweeping social changes of the 20^th century.

Opening on Saturday 5 October and running until 2 February 2025, the programme features exhibitions and interactive artworks, events and activities. At its heart is the touring collection, Into Abstraction, Modern British Art and the Landscape, curated by The Hepworth Wakefield, showcasing masterpieces by Barbara Hepworth, Henry Moore, Duncan Grant and Ben Nicholson.

Visitors will explore bold and vibrant prints including striking canvases from The Wilson’s own collection featuring works by William Gear, Wilhelmina Barns-Graham and Harold Cohen.

The exhibition includes a new contemporary art commission, by local textile artist Gemma Kay Waggett bringing abstract art through material, colour and form, reflecting the local landscape with the focus on the Belas Knap, one of Gloucestershire’s four Neolithic long barrows.

Both exhibitions are free to visit, donations are invited, and the art gallery and museum offers The Wilson Kitchen café with its free dedicated Play! zone for younger visitors.

www.cheltenhammuseum.org.uk