A Gem in Brighouse: Exploring the Smith Art Gallery and Library

On a crisp December day in 2013, armed with my Samsung Galaxy Tablet, I had the pleasure of capturing the timeless beauty of the Smith Art Gallery and Library in Brighouse. This remarkable institution, steeped in history and culture, serves as a testament to the town's rich heritage and its commitment to public enrichment.

From Private Residence to Public Treasure: The Genesis of a Landmark

The story of the Smith Art Gallery and Library begins in 1841, when the impressive building, then known as "The Rydings," was constructed as the private residence of John Brooke, a prominent local miller. Fast forward to 1897, and this grand edifice underwent a significant transformation. The town of Brighouse acquired the property, embarking on a visionary project to convert it into the Brighouse Library. The surrounding grounds were simultaneously transformed into the town's very first public park, meticulously designed by Charles Kershaw and opened to the public in 1898.

A Royal Opening and a Philanthropic Legacy

The cultural significance of this site was further elevated with the opening of the Smith Art Gallery in May 1907. This addition was made possible through the generous patronage of William Smith, a local mill owner, who not only funded its construction but also contributed significantly to its initial art collection. The gallery's inauguration was a truly momentous occasion, marked by the presence of Princess Louise, who holds the distinction of being the first member of the royal family to visit Brighouse.

A Glimpse Inside: Art Through the Ages

While the Smith Art Gallery originally boasted four galleries, it currently features two. The front gallery offers a captivating exhibition of oil paintings, showcasing the talents of renowned artists. Among them are works by John Atkinson Grimshaw, a celebrated Victorian-era artist from Leeds, known for his atmospheric cityscapes and moonlight scenes. You can also admire pieces by Marcus Stone, an English painter from London and a distinguished member of the Royal Academy, as well as the exquisite landscapes of Thomas Sydney Cooper, an artist hailing from Canterbury.

The rear gallery, in contrast, is a dynamic space that continuously evolves. It hosts a diverse and constantly changing display, featuring everything from the vibrant works of local artists to intriguing touring exhibitions, thought-provoking photography, and captivating sculptures. This ensures that every visit offers a fresh and engaging artistic experience.

The Smith Art Gallery and Library stands not just as a building, but as a vibrant hub of knowledge, art, and community, a true jewel in the heart of Brighouse.

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A Taste of Lanzarote: Exploring Vinos el Campesino

 Back in 2013, during a wonderful tour of the captivating island of Lanzarote, I had the pleasure of visiting Vinos el Campesino. This trip coincided with the very beginning of my journey into photography as a hobby, and the unique landscape of this vineyard certainly provided ample inspiration.

The first thing that strikes you about the Vinos el Campesino vineyard is its ingenious approach to viticulture. The vines aren't planted in traditional rows; instead, they are grown in shallow pits dug into the volcanic ash that covers the surrounding plains. To protect these precious plants from Lanzarote's constant breeze, each vine is carefully sheltered by a low, horseshoe-shaped stone wall. This creates a fascinating, almost regimented pattern across the landscape, as seen in the image below.

They were taken on Tuesday 30th July 2013 using a Samsung Galaxy Tablet. Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The mountain, hill or volcano crater is the Montana Blanca

As you can see the vines are well organised in there horse show shaped
pits, this is to protect from the constant breeze.

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The Ruined Church of St. Thomas à Becket, Heptonstall

There's something uniquely captivating about ancient ruins, especially when they stand sentinel amidst the everyday. Tucked away in the picturesque village of Heptonstall, nestled in the Upper Calder Valley, are the hauntingly beautiful remains of the original Heptonstall Parish Church, also known as the Church of St. Thomas à Becket, or at times, The Chapel of St Thomas the Martyr. I had the privilege of capturing these atmospheric scenes on a snowy day, November 19th, 2016, with my Nikon D3300.

The images transport you to a place where history whispers from every crumbling stone and frost-kissed archway. You can almost feel the chill wind that must have swept through its open spaces for centuries.

Originally constructed sometime in the late 12th to early 13th Century, this venerable church was a vital hub, serving the communities of Heptonstall, Erringden, Langfield, Stansfield, and Wadsworth. Its priests, appointed and funded by the Vicar of Halifax, ministered to the people living west of Halifax, a testament to its significant role in the spiritual life of the region.

The church's long history wasn't without its dramatic moments. Around the turn of the 16th Century, it was even closed for a period due to the murder of a priest, reportedly after he performed an illicit marriage ceremony – a tale that adds a layer of intriguing mystery to its past. Over the centuries, the church saw numerous renovations and additions, undergoing significant changes in the 14th, 15th, 16th, and 17th centuries. In 1810, a new clock was installed, a detail that now connects it to its successor.

However, fate had a different plan for this ancient structure. In 1847, a devastating storm swept through, tearing off the roof, damaging the tower, and causing considerable havoc in the churchyard. The "church rate," a tax intended to support the parish church, simply wasn't enough to cover the extensive repairs needed.

Rather than restoring the damaged church, the community rallied together through voluntary subscriptions and built a brand new church right in the same churchyard, which officially opened its doors in 1854. This new church stands proudly beside its older, ruined counterpart, a poignant reminder of continuity and change.

Today, the ruins of the Church of St. Thomas à Becket remain, a majestic and poignant landmark. Walking through its snow-dusted nave, beneath its skeletal arches, is a truly evocative experience. It’s remarkable to think that occasionally, outdoor services are still held within these ancient walls, bringing new life to a place steeped in so much history.

These photographs capture the raw beauty and quiet dignity of the ruins, particularly striking against the winter snow. The interplay of light and shadow, the starkness of the stone against the white landscape, and the enduring strength of the remaining structure all tell a story of centuries past.

If you ever find yourself in Heptonstall, I highly recommend a visit to these incredible ruins. They are a powerful testament to time, resilience, and the enduring spirit of community.

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Painting the Sky: A Kelso Sunrise to Remember

There's something truly magical about a sunrise, and some linger in your memory long after the last rays have faded. This photograph, captured near Kelso, Scotland, on October 24th, 2018, is one such moment.

The sky is ablaze with an incredible palette of vibrant purples, deep fuchsias, and soft blues, blending seamlessly into one another. It's as if nature itself decided to become an artist, using the vast canvas above to create a masterpiece of light and colour. The clouds, catching these dramatic hues, add texture and depth to the scene, making the display even more breath taking.

Below this fiery spectacle, the tranquil waters of a loch or pond reflect the colours of the sky, mirroring the beauty above and adding a serene counterpoint to the vibrant drama. The dark silhouettes of the surrounding landscape—the rolling hills, distant trees, and the gentle curve of the land—frame the vibrant sky perfectly, enhancing its impact. A fence in the foreground grounds the image, hinting at pastoral surroundings and the quiet beauty of the Scottish Borders.

This image reminds us of the profound beauty that nature offers, especially in places like the Scottish Borders, where the landscapes are already so evocative. A sunset like this isn't just a daily occurrence; it's a profound experience, a moment of stillness and awe that leaves you feeling connected to something larger than yourself.

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Discover History and More at Bankfield Museum, Halifax

Nestled within the scenic Akroyden Park in Halifax, you'll find Bankfield Museum, a fascinating gem that offers a journey through local history, art, and more. This beautiful building, a Grade II listed former house, has a rich past of its own, having once been the residence of Edward Akroyd MP.

In 1887, the Halifax Corporation acquired the property, transforming it into a public museum and library shortly thereafter. Its historical significance was further recognised in 1954 when it was granted its Grade II listing.

Today, Bankfield Museum continues to welcome visitors with a diverse range of displays. Explore exhibits on local history, textiles, art, toys, and jewellery, providing a glimpse into the vibrant heritage of the area. The museum also keeps things fresh with a constantly changing set of temporary displays throughout the year, meaning there's always something new to see.

For those interested in military history, Bankfield Museum is also home to the Duke of Wellington Regimental Museum, offering a dedicated space to explore the regiment's storied past.

The best part? Entry to Bankfield Museum is completely free! It's open from Tuesday to Saturday, between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM. With a convenient car park and the lovely Akroyden Park right on its doorstep (overlooked by the impressive All Souls Church), it's the perfect spot to spend a few hours exploring, learning, and enjoying the surroundings.

I took these pictures with a Samsung Galaxy Tablet in November 2014, clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

This painting can be seen covering the ceiling just inside the
main entrance.

Bankfield Museum from the car park.

Bankfield from Akroyden Park

Duke of Wellingtons Regiment uniform from the Crimean War

The fireplace in the library with textile displays in the cabinets. The 
marble busts are life size and from left to right are Edward Akroyd, his father
Jonathan and then his wife Elizabeth.

This was on display in the regimental museum and was given to coalition
forces during the 2003 invasion of Iraq to help identify the most wanted members
of the Iraqi government.

The library ceiling which features images of William Shakespeare, John Milton, Alfred
Tennyson and Geoffrey Chaucer all poets admired in the era the roof was painted. When I
visited, a fellow admirer told me that the local council once had a plan to
paint over the ceiling. What an act of vandalism that would have been had it come to pass.

Another view of the library.

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Discovering History at St Peter's Church, Langley Burrell, Wiltshire

Sometimes, the most unexpected detours lead to the most fascinating discoveries. That's exactly what happened on May 5th, 2018, while on a work trip to the Wavin site in Chippenham, Wiltshire. Driving along the B4069 from the M4, a discreet sign for "St Peter's Church" caught my eye. Knowing I was staying nearby, a seed of curiosity was planted, promising a potential evening exploration – a welcome diversion from the usual work routine.

With no dedicated camera gear, just the trusty lens of my LG mobile phone, I embarked on a spontaneous photographic journey. The church itself is a hidden gem, nestled in a secluded spot remarkably close to the road, yet easily missed without that serendipitous signpost. Its understated presence adds to its charm, making it feel like a personal discovery.

While the interior was closed during my visit, the grounds were thankfully accessible, offering ample opportunity to wander and capture its essence. Even without stepping inside, the church's rich history resonated through its ancient stones and peaceful surroundings.

A Glimpse into Centuries of Faith

St Peter's Church boasts an incredible lineage, with a history stretching all the way back to Saxon times, approximately the 9th century. Imagine the countless lives and stories that have unfolded within these hallowed grounds over more than a millennium! Remarkably, some of the lower structures around the porch and nave still bear the hallmarks of their Saxon origins, a tangible link to a distant past.

Over the centuries, St Peter's has been a living, evolving edifice, undergoing numerous renovations and extensions. It seems only the 16th century left the church untouched before further work continued its transformation. More recent history also marks its presence: since 1890, the church has seen significant restoration to its chancel, nave, and aisle. The sturdy tower received much-needed repairs in both 1890 and 1926, ensuring its continued sentinel watch over the village. Practical updates arrived in the 20th century, with electricity installed in the 1920s and heating in the 1960s, a testament to its ongoing use and adaptation to modern needs.

Today, St Peter's Church stands as an active Anglican place of worship, proudly serving its community within the Diocese of Bristol.

A Serene Stop on a Busy Day

My impromptu visit, captured through the lens of my mobile phone, yielded eleven pictures – a visual testament to the tranquil beauty and historical depth of this remarkable Wiltshire church. It was a stark reminder that sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are those that are unplanned, offering a moment of quiet reflection amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life.

If you ever find yourself travelling through Wiltshire, keep an eye out for that sign on the B4069. St Peter's Church, Langley Burrell, is more than just a building; it's a silent guardian of history, waiting to share its stories with those who take the time to discover it.

Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Clickasnap and Photo4Me using the links below. Your support means a lot!

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.