We recently discovered this rare artist proof Peter Brook lithograph in an antique shop. June, Canal, was part of the 12 Months of the Year series commissioned by Agnews in 1976 and printed in 1978 in editions of 150. This artist proof is one of only 20 produced. In recognition of the importance of the work a copy of the series is held by the Tate (http://www.tate.org.uk/art/artworks/brook-twelve-months-of-the-year-65263). Now remounted and reframed, June, Canal is in now in our main gallery.
June, Canal is an example of Peter’s earlier style – there’s no Peter with dog! The colours are muted, and you can feel the calm and tranquil mood, but through the arch of the bridge are the mills of a nearby town, no doubt a hive of industry. We don’t know where the painting depicts, but perhaps a good guess is that the canal is the Calder & Hebble Navigation which runs through the mill towns of Brighouse and Elland, close to where Peter lived and worked.
Title: June, Canal
Medium: Artist Proof, Lithograph
Size: H81xW99cm Framed
Price: £595
Peter’s work has a special place in the history of the Old School; he was good friends with Mike and Diane, who then owned the Gallery, and often visited to paint views of Swaledale and to support exhibitions; people who visit us recall with fondness meeting him.
We’re very happy to continue The Old School’s association with his work, and always have a good selection of his work on display.
Richard & Polly