Newlyn Art Gallery has celebrated the 200th anniversary of a true Cornish legend’s birth at the building he founded many years ago.
The special anniversary event celebrated John Passmore Edwards who was a Cornish philanthropist, generous benefactor, and life-long champion of the working classes. The event was held at the gallery which is one of three that Passmore Edwards founded.
Members from the Shallal Dance Theatre Group bought along their giant Mr and Mrs Passmore Edwards puppets, which were created as part of their ‘Best for the Most’ project, and afterwards gave a performance of poetry and dance.
To mark the 200th anniversary, more than 70 Passmore Edward buildings, from libraries to hospitals have been gifted a Rowan tree by Forest for Cornwall.
Penzance Mayor Cllr Stephen Reynolds helped in planning the tree in Newlyn’s Garden with the event which was then completed in true Cornish style with pasties and a cream tea.
Cllr Reynolds said: “What a legacy Passmore Edwards left to future generations!
“It was a real pleasure to help Newlyn Art Gallery commemorate this great philanthropist.
“Not only is this amazing building still in use for its original purpose, but the gallery team are ensuring his legacy lives on by embracing his inclusive and generous philosophy.”
Gallery Director James Green said: “Passmore Edwards was a truly remarkable individual, who dedicated himself to improving the life chances of so many people, through shrewdly investing in public institutions, such as Newlyn Art Gallery, many of which continue to do his work today.
"He remains an inspiration to us all at the gallery, so it’s wonderful to reflect on, and honour his legacy through the tree planting today.”
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Over the space of 14 years, 70 major buildings were established in London, Cornwall and elsewhere, particularly for the benefit of local communities as a direct result of Passmore Edwards’ requests. These included hospitals, libraries, schools, convalescent homes, drinking fountains and three art galleries which continue to the present day: White Chapel Art Gallery, South London Gallery and Newlyn Art Gallery.
The original name of Newlyn Art Gallery, Passmore Edwards Art Gallery can be seen on the front of the building, which opened its doors in October 1895.
On his death in 1911, Edwards was remembered for his generosity as a benefactor and his positive impact, as noted in his obituary in The Times: ‘He did more good in his life than almost any other of his contemporaries.’
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