Helen Clapcott’s latest exhibition captures the changing landscape of Stockport over the years, providing a compelling visual journey.
With over 100 artworks on display, the retrospective offers a unique lens on the town’s transformation from an industrial powerhouse to a modern urban centre.
A Lifetime Commitment to Stockport
Helen Clapcott’s commitment to Stockport spans over five decades. Her latest exhibition at the Stockport War Memorial Art Gallery, titled ‘A Portrait of Stockport’, showcases more than 100 of her pieces. The exhibition runs until January and features notable works like ‘The Power Station’, ‘The Last Carnival’, and ‘Brinksway 1979, Before The Motorway’.
One critic commented, ‘If LS Lowry first opened our eyes to the beauties of the industrial scene, Clapcott is chronicling its last chapter, the decay and fall of a great cityscape.’ Her paintings capture everything from landmark viaducts to a floodlit football match at Stockport County FC’s home ground.
Evolution Through Art
Clapcott’s work captures the transformation of Stockport from a bustling industrial town to a contemporary urban landscape. The collection of sketches and paintings serves as a visual record of this evolution, chronicling changes spanning multiple decades.
Stockport Council noted that the artworks ‘record an evolution of a once great industrial town with its mills and renowned viaduct into a modern town fit for the 21st century.’ This transition is vividly depicted in Clapcott’s portrayal of both historical and modern-day Stockport.
Personal Reflections
Helen Clapcott was born in Blackpool in 1952 but moved to Stockport as a child. She is a postgraduate of the Royal Academy of Arts and has had significant exhibitions at Scolar Fine Art and the Osborne Samuel Gallery in London’s Mayfair.
‘It’s 50 years since I sat by the side of the viaduct painting the mills, 40 years since the power station was untangled and demolished and 30 years since the motorway was completed’, Clapcott shared.
Her connection to Stockport remains unwavering. Despite opportunities in London, Clapcott chose to stay rooted in the North, capturing the ever-changing essence of her hometown.
Community and Cultural Impact
Councillor Frankie Singleton emphasised the importance of Clapcott’s work, stating, ‘Helen is one of the most exciting artists in the region today and it’s very fitting that her paintings of Stockport will be on display at the War Memorial Art Gallery for local people to enjoy.’
The exhibition not only highlights Clapcott’s artistic talents but also serves as a cultural touchstone for the community. Local residents have the opportunity to see their town through Clapcott’s eyes, gaining a deeper appreciation for its history and evolution.
Techniques and Style
One of the distinct features of Clapcott’s work is her use of tempera, an egg-based emulsion. This technique sets her apart from many contemporary artists and adds a unique texture and depth to her paintings.
Critics have praised her ability to blend traditional techniques with modern subjects, making her body of work both timeless and relevant. Her distinct style offers a fresh perspective on familiar scenes, allowing viewers to see Stockport in a new light.
Clapcott’s attention to detail and her ability to capture light and shadow have been particularly noted. These elements bring a sense of realism and emotion to her work, making each piece a poignant reflection of Stockport’s journey.
Exhibition Highlights
Among the standout pieces in the exhibition are ‘The Power Station’, which depicts the deconstruction of an iconic landmark, and ‘The Last Carnival’, a vibrant representation of community festivities.
‘Brinksway 1979, Before The Motorway’ captures a moment in time before significant urban development. Each piece not only highlights a specific scene but also tells a broader story about the town’s transformation.
The exhibition provides a comprehensive view of Stockport’s history, making it a must-see for anyone interested in the town’s past and future.
Audience Reception
The response from the local community has been overwhelmingly positive. Many visitors have expressed a deep connection to the artworks, seeing their personal histories reflected in Clapcott’s depictions.
This exhibition serves as a celebration of Stockport’s unique character and its ongoing evolution. It stands as a testament to Helen Clapcott’s dedication to her craft and her hometown.
Final Thoughts
Helen Clapcott’s retrospective exhibition offers a rare opportunity to witness the evolution of Stockport through the eyes of a dedicated artist.
Through her detailed and evocative work, Helen Clapcott successfully captures the essence of Stockport’s transformation.
The exhibition stands as a poignant tribute to the town’s history and its ongoing evolution into a modern urban centre.
