12th March 2018
Artistic tribute to the Royal Air Force unveiled at National Memorial Arboretum
David Bent exhibits at national memorial arboretum
It’s always the greatest pleasure to write about David Bent on this blog. Because he’s a Swindon artist and because I’m a fan of his work. ‘Nuff said.
He’s featured here several times before and if you want to explore any of the other posts you’ll find them here: https://swindonian.me/category/artscultureheritage/david-bent/
Or visit David Bent Studio: http://davidbentstudio.com
David Bent speaks to British Forces radio
Below you’ll find a clip of David Bent talking on British Forces radio about the RAF and his exhibition.
David is a talented chap with many brushes in his pot, but he is of course, well-known for his aviation art. So in this anniversary year of the RAF this exhibition is fitting. You’ll find the National Memorial Arboretum in Staffordshire. It’s a year-round centre for remembrance.
The arboretum is part of the Royal British Legion and has almost 30,000 maturing trees and over 350 memorials.
Artistic tribute to the Royal Air Force unveiled at National Memorial Arboretum
An exhibition by leading modern aviation artist, David Bent Hon CRAeS, unveiled at the National Memorial Arboretum, in Staffordshire.
‘Tribute 100’ is a new collection of work. It’s David Bent’s personal response and tribute to the legacy and ongoing contribution of the Royal Air Force.
The Arboretum, which is part of The Royal British Legion, is hosting the exhibition to celebrate the centenary of the Royal Air Force. Formed towards the end of the First World War, the RAF bears the distinction of being the oldest independent air force in the world.
On display in the Arboretum’s Remembrance Centre from 30 March to 30 June 2018, this free of charge exhibition features a selection of individual pieces by David Bent. The exhibition encourages visitors to spend time giving the artworks close examination, to discover elements and perspectives hidden within. As with most of David’s work, ‘the more you look, the more you see.’
David’s inspiration
As an artist, David finds inspiration in the world around him. That includes social issues, human design, technology and the natural world. Over the past 18 years, David’s pioneering approach to aviation art has attracted widespread support from many ares. This includes among many members of the Royal Air Force and the wider aviation community.
His solo exhibitions include:
- The Royal Air Force Museum
- Russell Coates museum and art gallery
- The Royal Air Force club
- St George’s
- The Great Western Hospital
- The crypt at St Paul’s cathedral
- Farnborough and Dubai international airshows
- The Royal International Air Tattoo
Said David: “The Royal Air Force’s attitude has always been progressive and cutting edge; out there. For me, their motto Per Ardua ad Astra – from adversity to the stars – sums them up perfectly. From the earliest days, a century of hard work, imagination, skill and courage has taken the Air Force to the extremes of modernity and 3D space. This has provided the inspiration for my new collection of work.
Using a variety of aircraft and propeller shapes representing one hundred years, these images attempt to evoke the spirit of that propulsive force that moves them forever forward, turning theory into evermore fantastical reality. I‘m pleased that this collection is launching at such a significant and meaningful place as the National Memorial Arboretum.”
Sarah Oakden said ..
Sarah Oakden, Head of Marketing at the National Memorial Arboretum, said: “This exciting exhibition will allow visitors to explore an amazing collection of colourful works that celebrate the contributions of the Royal Air Force. Our new Remembrance Centre has allowed us to host a series of inspiring and engaging temporary exhibitions. This selection of vivid images from David Bent is a brilliant cultural addition. It’s also an important component of our programme marking the centenary of the formation of the Royal Air Force.
We’ll have a wide range of RAF 100 events and activities taking place between April and July and further information will be available on our website over the coming weeks.”
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