Norman Cornish

Here's a fascinating exhibition, not in London more's the pity, but at the University Gallery of Northumbria University: The Narrow World of Norman Cornish. At 91, he's the last of what is known as The Pitmen Painters, also the title and subject of Lee Hall's play at the Duchess Theatre in London (title link). These were intelligent young coal miners who sought to escape their life in the mines through art. After 33 years in the mines, Norman Cornish finally succeeded. Look at the high quality of his Pit Road with Telegraph Pole and Lights and you will see how he achieved his escape. His charcoal-and-chalk Self Portrait is finely wrought. He now has his own website (CLICK). His exhibition at Northumbria University runs until 7 October (CLICK).