Spotlight on gallery in new exhibition

6.50.49pm BST (GMT +0100) Thu 13th Sep 2007

Orleans House Gallery in Twickenham will celebrate its 35th anniversary this autumn with a major exhibition exploring the history and heritage of the site.

Now Richmond Council's flagship art gallery, Orleans House was a former home of French Royalty, and the Arts Service wants local people to share their recollections of the riverside venue. Gallery curator, Mark De Novellis, has launched an appeal for people to come forward with their memories of the house and its grounds, and photos or works of art relating to the site. The final display will include historical works from the Borough Art Collection, the Richmond Local Studies Collection, private loans and contemporary works created specifically for the exhibition.

Cllr Stephen Knight, Deputy Leader of Richmond Council, said: "Since the gallery opened its doors in 1972, it has cemented its reputation as the borough's premier arts venue. In recent years shows on the Royal Ballet School and autistic artist Stephen Wiltshire have proved hugely popular. It is also home to the borough's excellent arts education programme boosting cultural opportunities for the whole community. The new show will explore the history of the house - built almost 300 years ago - and be a fitting way to commemorate the gallery's 35th anniversary and coincide with the final stage of the development of the Stables and courtyard. "I urge local people to share their memories of the site and contribute to this timely exhibition."