Artists exhibition of new work at The Workhouse in Presteigne

8:00am Friday 3rd September 2010

By Philippa May

TAKING it easy might be the order of the day for many people approaching their 90th birthday, but not for Presteigne artist Rhoda Partridge, who is instead celebrating with an exhibition of new work at The Workhouse in Presteigne during h.Art 2010.

Characteristically, the work in the new show represents a change of direction for Rhoda, whose watercolours are joined in the exhibition by an exciting collection of new pieces by metal sculptor Sara Bamford.

“It was Rhoda’s idea that I exhibit with her,” says Sara, whose new work in wire, welded steel and cast bronze is inspired by the artistes of the Cirque de Soleil.

It also combines two of her great passions: “I love hot metal and I love bodies and my work provides a wonderful way of being a voyeur,” she explains.

“My daughter Rose gave me Cirque de Soleil tickets for Christmas and it was great, watching all these people with beautiful bodies.”

Sara escapes to her workshop whenever possible, but she also runs The Workhouse and the bespoke carpetmaking and conservation business housed there.

“Running the business is time-consuming, but I’ve been making time to do these pieces and I’ve really got into it and enjoyed myself more than I have for a long while,” she added.

The carpet business was born out of Sara’s fondness for Afghanistan, where she fell in love with the country, its people and its rugs when she travelled there after six years at art school, three of them at the Slade, and it took over her life. “But sculpture has always been in the background.”

Rhoda’s watercolours are delicate, detailed jewel-like depictions of flowers, birds ... and lichen. “I’d never realised how beautiful lichens were before,” she says, revealing that several of the pieces that will feature in the exhibition have already been sold.

Although the subjects of their work are so different, Sara’s work provided the catalyst for the pair to revive their love of life drawing, spending time sketching a young gymnast friend of Rhoda’s. “It’s very hard work,” says Sara. “But very exciting,” adds Rhoda.

The exhibition of new work by Rhoda Partridge and Sara Bamford is at The Workhouse Gallery and Café, Presteigne Industrial Estate from Saturday, September 11, to Sunday, September 19. For further details, call 01544 267864.