Later this week, the Young Gallery in Salisbury will exhibit a selection of plant studies from renowned artist and etcher Robin Tanner (1904-1988).
The exhibition is free to visit from Friday, 19th of September, in Gallery 2.
Tanner is best known for his etchings, but these intricate studies of Wiltshire plants were an important part of his creative process. He produced over a thousand botanical studies of local plants, carefully noting their environment, colour and formation, as well as the time of year they grew.
This exhibition celebrates Tanner’s preparatory botanical studies, which he used to create etchings and illustrate books. It gives an insight into the diverse flora of Wiltshire as Tanner drew plants around his home, Old Chapel Field near Chippenham, throughout the year, even into winter. The Young Gallery holds over 200 examples of Tanner’s botanical studies, as well as a selection of etchings, teaching aids and archival material.
Robin Tanner was an artist, teacher, and printmaker. He was born in Bristol and spent most of his life in Wiltshire, at his home, Old Chapel Field, near Chippenham. After studying teaching and etching at Goldsmiths College, he became part of the etching revival. Tanner worked as a teacher, advocating that art was an essential part of the syllabus, and later became HM Inspector of Schools in Gloucester. He returned to etching full-time when he retired. Much of his work shows Wiltshire scenes, as well as its native flora and fauna.
The exhibition is free to visit with no booking required. It runs until the 3rd of January 2026 and is accompanied by a free family trail.
Cllr Mel Jacob, Deputy Leader of Wiltshire Council and Cabinet Member for Communities, Engagement, and Corporate Services, said: “As a keen gardener and lover of plants, it’s wonderful that people will have the opportunity to see the creative botanical work of Robin Tanner, drawing inspiration by his surroundings in Wiltshire which, judging by this art, was beautiful.”
Dr Emily Dunbar, Curator and Gallery Manager, said: “This exhibition gives a unique insight into Robin Tanner’s artistic practice and celebrates these preparatory sketches as artwork in their own right. It also showcases nature in Wiltshire throughout the year.”
More information about The Young Gallery, people should visit https://www.younggallerysalisbury.org.uk/
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