A Celebration of Daphne McClure’s Life and Work at Cornwall Contemporary
The first solo exhibition of 2025 at Cornwall Contemporary Gallery in Penzance is set to be a truly special one, celebrating the life and work of the late Daphne McClure. A highly regarded artist with deep ties to Cornwall, Daphne’s influence on the artistic community continues to resonate, and this exhibition brings together a remarkable collection of her work, including some never-before-seen pieces.
Born in 1927, Daphne McClure’s artistic journey was filled with notable achievements. Early in her career, she worked at The Royal Opera House in Covent Garden, collaborating on costumes for esteemed designers such as John Piper for The Magic Flute and Barbara Hepworth for Midsummer Marriage. Throughout her life, she enjoyed numerous sell-out exhibitions, was commissioned by Tate St Ives, and was invited for a prestigious residency by the Josef and Annie Albers Foundation in Connecticut.
Daphne passed away in 2023 at the age of 96, leaving behind a legacy that is interwoven with Cornwall’s rich artistic heritage. Her work sits alongside those of Lanyon, Nicholson, and other renowned St Ives painters who found inspiration in the landscapes and daily life of Cornwall. Daphne’s paintings reflect her love of the region and her passion for capturing its unique atmosphere, making her work highly sought after by collectors worldwide.
This exhibition is a rare opportunity to experience the depth of Daphne McClure’s artistic vision. Featuring a diverse range of works from various stages of her career, including some previously unseen drawings and paintings, the exhibition promises to be a poignant tribute to an artist whose work remains as relevant and captivating as ever.
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| Daphne's son, skipper Tom McClure and his inshore trawler, Guardian from Newlyn. |
Adding to the significance of the event, Daphne’s daughter, Emma McClure, will also be exhibiting her own paintings on the second floor of the gallery. The mother-daughter connection in this exhibition highlights the continuing artistic legacy within the McClure family.
Visitors can preview the exhibition on Cornwall Contemporary’s website, and those on the gallery’s mailing list will receive an invitation to the opening event.
Daphne McClure – Solo Exhibition
14th March – 12th April 2025
Cornwall Contemporary Gallery, Penzance
