I am a second year undergraduate reading History of Art at Catz. My role as an intern for the collection is endlessly varied - from researching works to organising the loan collection and from giving informal tours of the gallery to devising new exhibition hangs. The discovery of the large John Bratby painting lurking in the library has certainly been a highlight. The twentieth century oil painting depicts the artist's wife, Jean Cooke, in heavy, brooding colours typical of Bratby's oeuvre. It is soon to undergo a lengthy conservation process which will involve adjustment of abrasions and removal of surface dirt and will bring the work back to life. Do pop in and witness the 'before' and 'after' for yourself - we look forward to meeting you!
- jcrartfund