Munnings exhibition to go on display at National Heritage Centre

The National Heritage Centre at Palace House in Newmarket has partnered with The Munnings Art Museum, in Dedham, Essex, to present a new exhibition of racing scenes by Sir Alfred Munnings.

The exhibition reveals the impact of Newmarket, Epsom and other well-known courses, horses and owners on one of Britain’s greatest equestrian artists. It will be open from Wednesday until April 8, 2018.

The collection will comprise of some of Munnings' most recognisable works, including those of his favourite subject – the start of the race. Visitors will also see, in contrast, studies of empty stands and paddocks which convey the peacefulness of a course before the explosion of the race itself.

Chris Garibaldi, director at the National Heritage Centre, said: "Sir Alfred Munnings' work is of extraordinary quality and this exhibition highlights the profound influence Newmarket had on his work.

"There is a very special relationship with Munnings and the site at the Heritage Centre that used to be owned by the Rothschild family, who commissioned him to paint their racehorses."

Although drawn to Newmarket as an artist, Munnings also had a personal affinity with the town demonstrated through the lines of a recently discovered poem: "I’ll fly away at midnight, whilst a star will lead me on along the broad highway towards Newmarket for another day."

Included in the displays are personal items and ephemera including the tools of the artist's trade such as palettes, smock and brushes.

Jenny Hand, director of The Munnings Art Museum, said: “There is no better place to celebrate sporting art than in Newmarket. We feel extremely privileged to be exhibiting this number of Munnings' racing pictures in the home of horseracing.

“We hope that race and art lovers alike will discover more about Munnings, man and artist.”