Rachel Tranter

Rachel Tranter's presentation about Orleans House Gallery and the Borough's Art Collection exceeded all expectations. After a potted history of the house through the ages, most of which is no longer there, and the octagon which is a beautiful and important building, we were treated to a tour of the artworks, many depicting the splendid riverside views of the local area. We saw stunning works by artists such as Kynff, Marlow, Hilditch and Pether as well as some of the interesting artegacts held by the Trust such as the shoes of Richard Burton of Kama Sutra fame, who lived locally and is buried in Barnes. We were treated to an update of progress on the transformation of Orleans House through a Heritage Lottery Grant. The work will cost around £3.5m, but will provide the borough with a wonderful resource for viewing and studying art and rooms which can be hired for events. All of the collection (2000+ works) will eventually be viewable through the website for all the enjoy. A visit to Orleans House Gallery is a must.