VECTIS SCENERY

Vectis Scenery is an exhibition being held at Brading Roman Villa. This is the first opportunity for 34 years to see a unique collection of almost 200 original 19th century engravings of the Isle of Wight by the Brannon family.

The exhibition is open from 11am to 3pm from Saturday 6 November to Sunday 5 December.

THE ISLAND’S HISTORY THROUGH GEORGE BRANNON’S ENGRAVINGS

“A unique collection of almost 200 George Brannon (1784 – 1860) original engravings will be on display at Brading Roman Villa this autumn from Sunday 7th November to Sunday 5th December.

The exhibition, collected over many years, was last on view to the public 34 years ago at Ryde Library, when over 4000 visitors saw this interesting and historic display.

The majority of the works are by George Brannon himself, undoubtedly the Island’s best known and most prolific artist, but there are also works by his two sons Alfred and Philip.

George was a self-taught artist, engraver and publisher, handing this unusual combination of skills on to his sons, both of whom contributed to the family’s fine reputation which lives on today in the form of our local newspaper, when in 1884 Brannon’s grandson, also called George, became the founder and co-proprietor of the Isle of Wight County Press. The family name remains connected with the newspaper, notably as “Brannon House” the County Press building in Pyle Street Newport.

The prints are not only works of art; they present the viewer with a priceless glimpse of the Island’s history, landscapes and development almost 200 years ago.

This will be a unique opportunity for Islanders and visitors to view this fascinating 19th century collection of Island scenery. A major sponsor of this exhibition is the Isle of Wight County Press.”

Charges apply and all proceeds will be in aid of the Roman Villa.