Two special events are set to mark the publication of a new book celebrating the life and work of the Spennymoor artist Norman Cornish.
The Test of Time reveals some of the fascinating stories behind his pictures and Norman’s son-in-law, Mike Thornton will talk to writer Michael Chaplin exploring the stories, history and anecdotes behind the moments of County Durham life captured in Cornish’s acclaimed paintings.
Drawing on the 50 years Mike spent in conversation with Norman, the Durham Book Festival Fringe events, at Spennymoor and Bishop Auckland Town Halls in October, will celebrate the legacy of a great artist and provide insight and access to a slice of art history. The discussions will be supported by examples of paintings and drawings representing the full canon of Norman’s work.
Michael Chaplin’s father Sid, was a contemporary of Norman Cornish at The Spennymoor Settlement and also a ‘marra’ at Dean and Chapter Colliery. Chaplin has written the Foreword to The Test of Time and he has known Norman throughout his own lifetime. Chaplin is a former journalist, television producer and executive. He is a writer with many credits in drama for radio, television and the theatre, and author of various books of non-fiction about the North- East.
The Test of Time includes over 400 images spanning the depth and breadth of Cornish’s career. Many are previously unseen and will be published for the first time, evoking memories and nostalgia from a bygone era.
The book collates the stories behind the pictures, the legacy projects, and a collection of informed essays from nationally respected arts and culture specialists who have enjoyed Cornish’s work throughout their own lifetimes including: Michael Chaplin, Melvyn Bragg, Andrew Festing MBE, Dr Robert McManners MBE, Gillian Wales, Steve Swallow, Chris Lloyd, Dr Steve Howell, Dr Keith Wilson, Pam Royle and Dr Cesar Lengua.
Spennymoor's local community newspaper.
