New exhibition puts Pilgrims in the picture

A NEW exhibition of pictures of Plymouth Argyle has opened in the city.

Working with the Plymouth Barbican Association South West Image Bank, the Masa Fine Art Gallery in the Royal William Yard has reproduced over 30 images from the SWiB photographic archives charting the development Argyle from the 1940s.

The images will feature in a special month-long exhibition as stunning artistic pieces alongside some unique never-been-seen-before contemporary pieces captured by Jon Roberts and Sean Clee showing the stadium as it stands today.

The exhibition will also feature information gathered from local people and Plymouth Argyle enthusiasts which will generate an idea of the hidden personal stories behind some of the images.

The exhibition was officially opened yesterday by keen Argyle fan and Radio Devon presenter Gordon Sparks.

So if you've ever wondered what Home Park Stadium looked like during the 1950s or want to recall the fantastic 1984 FA Cup run, you can visit the exhibition.

"One of our core objectives has been to produce accessible public exhibitions which members of the public can benefit from" says Stacey Dyer, managing archivist of the South West Image Bank.

"It is hoped that through this exhibition and further outreach work we undertake, we may generate an interest in the work being undertaken by the Plymouth Barbican Association and South West Image Bank to enhance public access to the city's rich visual heritage.

"You don't have to be a football enthusiast to enjoy the Argyle exhibition, even I cannot fail to be impressed by the reproductions which Masa and SWiB have worked so hard to produce and which will be displayed as quality artistic pieces for the public to engage with."

The exhibition is open until the end of December at Masa Fine Art Gallery, Royal William Yard, telephone (01752) 229985.