Could you paint a backdrop like this?
Artist Wanted!!
I’m busy preparing an exhibition which opens at the Granary Gallery in Berwick-upon-Tweed in October. It will explore the history of photography in the town.
Berwick may seem a bit of backwater, but believe me it has a fascinating history where photography is concerned. The town is inextricably linked to the medium, being mentioned in the earliest British patent for the Daguerreotype in 1839, one of the earliest photographic processes. It also appears to have attracted a large number of eccentric characters who opened studios there.
There was a visit from Mr Bannister ‘the Prince of American photography’, Mr Green - a distant relation of Queen Victoria, Mr Mackay who was evicted for ‘smoke coming from his erection’, and Mr Calder who was arrested for creating images of women dressed in men’s clothing! An interesting bunch I’m sure you’ll agree!
I’m doing well in sourcing images, cameras and other material but I’m not having any luck with one of the key objects on my list.
Try as I might I cannot find an original photographic studio backdrop for display in the exhibition. The closest I got was at a studio in Derby, but their backdrops were rolled up and were so fragile the owners couldn’t even roll them out to photograph them for reference.
The answer… of course…create a new (old) one!
As I have absolutely no talent when it comes to painting so I’m looking to commission an artist to create one.
Could you paint a replica of a 19th century photographer’s studio backdrop based on my collection of photographs taken by W.H. De Lan and his daughters?
The backdrop will be displayed at the Granary and then be used in my work exploring the world of travelling photographers of the late 19th century.
As per the originals, the backdrop would need to be painted on cloth and measure approx 8ft x 10ft (2.5m x 3m). This is roughly the size of the wall in Mr De Lan’s mobile studio.
If you’re interested in the commission or would like more information drop me a message. I’ll be posting updates on the exhibition over the coming months so keep your eyes peeled.
Such a shame - I’m in the same boat as Clair - have lots of experience in painting backdrops and murals but sadly don’t have the working space any longer.
Ah its a shame as technically I could (maybe ask some muralists?) however I've no idea where I would hang it to paint it. That's huge. I've not got my own studio anymore and work from home. I'm sure you'll find someone who can help with the right space to accommodate it's size.