• New keeper of art appointed for Torre Abbey
    23/06/2008

    With the first phase of Torre Abbey’s restoration project nearing completion the attention has turned to the future showcasing of the Abbey’s collections to the public.

    The Abbey owns over 600 oil and water-colour pictures dating from the 18th to mid 20th centuries as well as glass, silver and pewter pieces, plaster casts and sculptures by Frederick Thrupp and moulded and sculptured stone from the medieval abbey.

    Amelia Marriette has been appointed as the Abbey’s new Keeper of Art and will be tasked with caring for its collections including the creation of interpretation displays for visitors.  Amelia will also be responsible for the furnished rooms in the Abbey.

    Amelia has recently completed her certificate in Museum and Gallery studies at University of St Andrews; this adds to her already extensive portfolio, which includes an MA in Shakespeare Studies from the University of Birmingham, and a first degree in history and art history.

    For some years she held a research and exhibition post at the Royal Shakespeare Company, but is joining Torbay Council from the Holst Birthplace Museum in Cheltenham, where she was the Curator.

    Amelia said:  “My ambition for some years has been to work with art and artists so I am delighted with my new role.  I am very excited and cannot wait to move into the Abbey and start creating new displays for the rooms and galleries."

    Cabinet Member Councillor Jeanette Richards said:  "It is such an exciting time for those involved in the Torre Abbey project and I am delighted that Amelia has joined the team. 

    "She shows great enthusiasm for her new role which will predominantly involve the development, care and interpretation of the Abbey's art collections.  This forms part of the council's commitment to transform the Abbey's prospects as a first class educational facility and tourist attraction."

    The £6.56million project is being funded by the Heritage Lottery Fund, Torbay Council, English Heritage and the Friends of Torre Abbey Renaissance Appeal.  The restoration project has unveiled many pleasant surprises over the last 12 months including a rare 14th Century grave slab and an extensive colour scheme found under the layers of limewash in the basement rooms of the Abbey thought to date back the early 13th Century just after the Abbey was built.

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