God gave each and everyone of us a talent. How we choose to use it is up to us but I have always admired those who can exploit their talent and provide enjoyment for their fellow man.
Those who are musicians or artists provide pleasure for many and I have often wished that I could paint wonderful landscapes or play a musical instrument. My God given talent obviously lies elsewhere but that does not stop me appreciating the expertise of others. One talented artist who lives in Ilkeston staged an exhibition of his work in the Gateway Christian Centre in Dale Village in 2002 and I took the opportunity to go and meet the artist himself, Barry Sutcliffe, and view his watercolours. On the left, Barry is pictured with one of his paintings - a view of a local landmark, the archway at Dale Abbey. This was just one of many local views that Barry has painted. Others on display included Potters Lock, St Helen's Church at Trowell (see top of this page) and the Bull's Head Public House in the Little Hallam area of Ilkeston.
But views from further afield including Cornwall, Yorkshire and Corfe Castle in Dorset along with pictures of flowers also feature in Barry's collection. The Gateway Christian Centre where Barry staged his exhibition was formerly a Methodist Chapel.
The original Wesleyan Chapel was in use from 1791 until 1892 and the building presently on the site was rebuilt in 1902. It fell into disuse in the 1970s but was bought in 1985 by the Parochial Church Council. It is now open on Sundays, Bank Holidays and special occasions like Barry's exhibition when light refreshments are also available.
So just how good is our local artist? Well just compare this photo of St Michael's Church in nearby Stanton-By-Dale (right) with Barry's watercolour below. Told you he was talented, didn't I?