Natural High at The Atkinson, Southport

Maja Lorkowska, Exhibitions Editor

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Natural High

The Atkinson, Southport
19 June 2021-26 March 2022

Always double check opening hours with the venue before making a special visit.

Morning Mist, Kilchurn by Alfred de Breanski (1852–1928). Atkinson Art Gallery Collection
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Relax and unwind in The Atkinson’s Natural High contemplative exhibition of the British landscape. Take a walk in the painted countryside, breathe in the sea air and marvel at the drama of mountains.

We all know that spending time in nature is good for us, our minds and bodies can relax a little and we breathe in a little deeper. There is plenty of science to back up these benefits too. In fact, even looking at images of natural environments makes us feel good, something that artists have perhaps subconsciously known for centuries in their ongoing quest to portray nature as beautifully as possible.

The Atkinson’s Natural High is a meditative display that gathers works from the gallery’s landscape collection. Referencing the 1800s period of discovery of British landscapes, the the show likens this time to that of the recent renewal of domestic travel and local holidays imposed by the pandemic. In the 19th century, artists turned to the undeniable beauty of the Lake District, the hills of Wales and the lochs and mountains of Scotland for inspiration and subject matter.

The Atkinson

 

There is perhaps no scenery that inspires awe more so than mountains. Whether you’re planning a treacherous hike or prefer to contemplate their beauty from afar, the feeling of something greater than us is particularly perceptible when faced with grand hills and peaks. Indeed, Natural High offers mountain imagery in a multitude of styles: from the misty Romanticism of Scottish scenery by Alfred de Breanski in the piece Morning Mist, Kilchurn; to the angular, impasto brushstrokes of Tryfan, 2 by 20th century realist Kyffin William.

The exhibition explores different ways of seeing and offers simple meditative exercises throughout, using the pieces on display as starting points to reimagine our relationship with art and nature. Whether you’re a city-dweller craving the space and fresh perspective that a trip to the countryside can guarantee, or just a dose of gorgeous landscape painting, Natural High will make you take a deeper breath in.

Where to go near Natural High at The Atkinson, Southport

Southport
Tourist Attraction
Town Hall Gardens

The Town Hall Gardens is a perfect spot to recharge your batteries whilst out and about in Southport.

The Engine Room Notice Board
Southport
Event venue
The Engine Room

The Engine Room is a creative community hub in Southport’s Wayfarers Arcade, offering co-working space, cultural events and collaborative opportunities for artists, freelancers and educators.

Southport
Southport Pier

Southport Pier opened in 1860, making it the oldest iron pier in Great Britain. It is also the second-longest in the country.

Southport Seafront
Southport
Beach
Southport Seafront

As well as being home to the Southport Air Show, there are many nostalgic seaside delights on Southport’s seafront, including the iconic pier.

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Victoria Park

In Southport’s town centre is Victoria Park, home to the famous Southport Flower Show, Southport Food and Drink Festival and the British Musical Fireworks Championship

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Formby Beach

A beautiful National Trust beach which emerges from glorious coastal pinewoods. The ideal spot for walking the dog and spying red squirrels.

Ring O'Bells
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Ring O’Bells

Popular country pub based in Ormskirk, serving classic British food and local ales.

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Moor Hall

Fine dining in a renovated grade II listed manor house. Offering some of the country’s most innovative dishes in beautiful surroundings.

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Harrowside Fish & Chips

Winner of the Good Food Award’s coveted Chippy of the Year award on multiple occasions, Harrowside is a great choice for fish and chips in Blackpool.

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