Collection: The New Art Gallery Walsall

Collection-level records:

• Collection overview (Cornucopia)

  Fine Art Collection

  There is a substantial quantity (about 2/3 of the collection) of 19th.C. oils and works on paper, and a further group of topographical subjects. The most significant element of the collection is, however, the Garman Ryan collection, presented by Lady Kathleen Epstein in 1972. This collection in turn has, since its arrival, stimulated the acquisition of more recent work in the main collection. The Garman Ryan collection is one of outstanding distinction. It is essentially the creation of Sir Jacob Epstein’s widow, Kathleen Garman, and her friend Sally Ryan, between 1959 (Epstein’s death) and 1972. It contains not only his work but a very wide variety of material of the highest quality from many different cultures and periods around the world. Familiar European artists in the collection include Van Gogh, Monet, Turner, Corot, Renoir and Constable. The gallery is developing a new collection (the Garman Ryan Epstein Collection) and an archive (the Epstein Archive). The archive will contain material directly associated with the Garman Ryan collection, as a research resource on the artist and on those immediately associated with him. The collection will seek to build on the existing Garman Ryan Collection, filling gaps where they exist, but also building on its spirit and creative impetus.

  Subjects

  Watercolours; Sculpture; Paintings; Fine Art; Prints; Photography; Drawings

  Collections Archive

  Background information on the artists and artworks featured and a general overview of anything contained in the gallery’s permanent collection. This can include the acquisition history, images of exhibitions, details of relevant existing research, and further details of artist’s other works and exhibitions worldwide. There is a particular emphasis on modern and contemporary art. (Please note: although this collection includes Garman Ryan Collection background information, the ‘Epstein Archive’ is a more detailed archive focusing on Epstein himself).

  Subjects

  Museum ownership; Artists; Contemporary art; Twentieth century; Art galleries; Modern art; Museum administration; Works of art; Art collections

  Epstein Archive

  A detailed history of the sculptor Jacob Epstein, including both family and career history. Includes a large collection of Epstein’s own books, tools and photographs, exhibition reviews, catalogues, letters, and personal items. Includes Garman Ryan and Beth Lipkin Archives. Some of these items are fragile and valuable and public access is limited. Please contact the library in advance to arrange viewings.

  Subjects

  Twentieth century; Sculptors; History; Art books; Sculpture; Family portraits; Artists preparatory studies; Family archives; Arts; Family correspondence; Artistic creation

  Source: Cornucopia

  Date: Not known, but before 2015

  Licence: CC BY-NC