Good morning everyone. I did this watercolour sketch when we visited our local museum. In fact, the beautiful Maurice Dobson Museum is stuffed full of antiques and interesting objects. And, it’s quite difficult to zero down on something to draw. Actually, I’ve been there on several occasions on a sketch visit, and this time I chose the mantelpiece in the upstairs room. And, the volunteer staff call this the Domestic Life room. Because it is laid out like a normal, fairly well to do sitting room, in the past. Of course, it’s also full of many more fascinating objects than you find in a real house.
The Maurice Dobson Museum – our Local Museum
I like this area in the museum most of all, I think. And it’s actually in the courtyard outside. Obviously, there is a roof over this section, and the rest of the courtyard is a beautiful outdoor extension to the little cafe. (Incidentally, the cottage style planting in the borders is quite appealing). And, now we’re on the subject of the cafe, that’s where you’ll find the art by local artists on the walls. We’ve exhibited our work here several times recently, Barnsley and District Art Society, that is.
Honestly, everyone enjoyed showing their work in such a pleasant setting, especially over a good coffee and some homemade cake! Not to mention the the warm, friendly welcome we get whenever we go. As I recall, we have had one or two great, little tea parties here on exhibition opening days!
If you want to get a better look at my ‘tomb sculpture ‘ painting (that’s the one on the wall), see here. As you may know, I painted this using sketches I made in the church at Silkstone village.
I always enjoy local museums – a taste of life before I came along, and even while I am still here. They make me nostalgic and sentimental, and also grateful for what I have today.
Yes, I agree, N. I love looking around too – but I’m glad that I live in our modern era!
This museum sounds like an all around good place and full of interest. Did they let you do your watercolor sketch in the actual room? Around here museums restrict you to pencils only.
Yes, Claudia, it’s very interesting and all the more so for being small. You can really get to know a place when it’s so compact. They did allow me to do a small, ‘tidy’ watercolour on site. I find that it varies from place to place, but I always ask!
Delightful museum and sketch
Thank you so much, Vivienne!