Visit to #Oldham Art Gallery and #Touchstones #Rochdale (part 1)

A fascinating day visiting the two galleries
It is about thirty years since I visited and exhibited in these galleries and I was amazed how much they have changed.
At one time they were small traditional buildings but now are a hive of activities. Whereby some areas aren't investing in the arts these two have expanded and are superb.
Gallery Oldham has a huge modern extension, housing a range of galleries and is looking to develop the older building it is linked to.
There is a traditional gallery featuring the collection of water colours including ones by W M Turner. As a contrast in one gallery there is an exhibition by Ian Beesley, where he has used the giant camera to take stunning pictures on a range of subjects and has included poetry with these.
The other gallery features work by Ann Sutton, a cutting edge textile artist, who has ventured into making three dimensional work. Again an exhibition that makes you think especially with the contrasts in the other rooms.
Finally, there is a community gallery where there is an old fashioned shop and paintings of the area and local people. At the far end of this room, there is a hanging space where people who work or live in Oldham can exhibit their work. This is an excellent concept and one I believe should be followed by other galleries.
Finally there is an excellent cafe to have a drink and a meal at the end of your visit.
An excellent start to the day.