Torre Abbey opens its doors with free entry for all on Saturday 10 and Sunday 11 September 2016, with the launch of a must-see exhibition ‘Sublime Symmetry: The mathematics behind William De Morgan’s ceramic designs’.
This new national touring exhibition from the De Morgan Foundation showcases the work of William De Morgan, the celebrated Victorian Arts and Crafts designer. The exhibition presents over 80 magnificent works, including ceramics from the De Morgan Collection and his designs on paper on loan from the V&A.
The pieces have all been chosen to demonstrate the mathematical concepts which are the basis for his beautiful and colourful ceramic designs. Peacocks, parrots, bees, swans and wild flowers adorn the objects on display.
Families including young children will be able to explore the patterns, shapes and symmetry in De Morgan’s elaborately decorated tiles and pots. Making learning maths fun, there will be interactive games and a family trail that can be enjoyed by budding mathematicians young and old. The exhibition is supported by an exciting schools programme and teacher information pack aimed at Key Stage 2.
Executive Lead for Tourism, Culture and Harbours, Cllr Nicole Amil, said: “We are delighted to host this remarkable exhibition at Torre Abbey. The show has something for visitors of any age and offers a real insight into De Morgan’s unique talents. It is also provides a great chance to see nationally significant works on our doorstep, with activities, talks and opportunities to meet the curator over our launch weekend.”
Exhibition Curator Sarah Hardy said: “Sublime Symmetry is the culmination of years of innovative research into the famed Victorian ceramic designer, William De Morgan’s, use of mathematical devices in his ceramic designs. A visit to the exhibition will allow visitors of all ages to see De Morgan’s ceramics in a completely unique way. The works of paper from the V&A have never been on public display before, making this an exhibition not to be missed.”
The exhibition at Torre Abbey continues until Sunday 4 December 2016 and beyond the Heritage Open launch weekend, children and young people under 18 are still free entry with a paying adult.
The Sublime Symmetry touring exhibition has been made possible by the generous support of the Esmée Fairbairn Collections Fund, the London Mathematical Society and The Art Fund: Jonathan Ruffer Curatorial Grant.
Find more information on the exhibition and the free entry launch weekend go to www.torre-abbey.org.uk or call 01803 293593. Book online for free ticketed events over Heritage Open Weekend and other activities.
