The imposing facade of the Birkenhead Institute was one of the most iconic to rise in the town during the Edwardian period. The embryonic talents of the young Wilfred Owen were nurtured there. Through its dark panelled corridors patrolled the stern form masters and eager prefects. Renowned for its sports, science and arts, it shaped the character of its pupils into outstanding ambassadors of a bygone age.
The original school was demolished in the 1980s but its proud edifice was preserved by one of its most timehonoured veterans. Art master David S W Jones created dozens of meticulous line drawings of his beloved Birkenhead Institute and these capture the true sense of time and place of the school’s fabled past.
At the Wilfred Owen Story and Gallery the public can view the most complete exhibition of these remarkable works that also depict other familiar Wirral landmarks. To coincide with this historic portfolio will be the unveiling of a specially commissioned ceramic replica of the Birkenhead Institute, created by Wirral ceramicist and Cheshire Woman Of The Year nominee Janet Holmes.
Taking her inspiration from David Jones' original sketches she has magically recaptured the spirit of the Birkenhead Institute; the cradle of Wilfred Owen’s genius.
The Birkenhead Institute by Janet Holmes
David Jones painting by Charles Oliver
For more details see www.wilfredowenstory.com
For further information please contact:
Dean Johnson
Wilfred Owen Story and Gallery
34 Argyle Street
Birkenhead
Wirral
CH41 6AE
Tuesday 14th June 2011 to Saturday 16th July 2011
Tuesday – Friday 11.00am – 2.00pm
For Saturday opening please phone 07539371925
