About the event

An exhibition by Claudia Myatt, Hilary Geelan and Mary-Anne Bartlett
Part of Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s Festival of Nature

Artists Claudia Myatt, Hilary Geelan and Mary-Anne Bartlett share a fascination with the River Deben: its changing tides and weather, its boats and wildlife, and the intricate relationship between the river and the landscape through which it flows.

This exhibition brings together watercolours, paintings, drawings, prints and sketchbooks created on and alongside the Deben. The works range from expansive river landscapes and intimate wildlife observations to paintings, many of which were made at Woodbridge, Martlesham Wilds and Hemley or in sketchbooks carried on walking and kayaking expeditions along the river.

Working outdoors and directly from their surroundings, Claudia, Hilary and Mary-Anne respond to the Deben as a living, changing environment. Their work reflects the artists’ curiosity: looking closely, noticing movement, recording fleeting encounters and exploring the river from different viewpoints—on foot, from the shore and from the water itself.

Some pieces capture a particular moment or place; others have developed from sketches, memories and discoveries gathered during journeys along the river. Together, they offer distinctive artistic responses to one remarkable Suffolk landscape.

Claudia's design background is evident in many of her works, especially when the Sutton Hoo treasures inspire her into intricate patterns.  Mary-Anne's love and knowledge of wildlife shows in her paintings of the river's birds and mammals.  Hilary’s artists’ books are a delight to hold and observe. The three artists work with Art Safari to encourage others to sketch and paint.

Presented at The Art Haven as part of Suffolk Wildlife Trust’s Festival of Nature, the exhibition invites visitors to pause, look more closely and feel inspired by the wildlife, landscapes and ever-changing character of the River Deben.