Continuing its series of successful and nationally significant art exhibitions – which have included works by renowned English painters Sir John Lavery, Sir Stanley Spencer, and Billy Childish – The Historic Dockyard Chatham concludes its diverse 2015 exhibition season in No. 1 Smithery: The Gallery with an eclectic selection of fine art by leading advocate of English landscapes in winter and distinguished artist - Rowland Hilder OBE.

Curated by Rowland Hilder aficionado, Nettie Iles, the exhibition runs from 10th October to 29th November 2015 and 'strives to expose the side of Hilder that, for many, is unexplored.'

Speaking at her gallery in Rochester, Kent, Nettie Iles said; 'This exhibition is going to be exceptional. It includes some of the iconic paintings which made Rowland’s name synonymous with Kentish and Winter Landscapes, affectionately known by millions as ‘Hilderscapes’: The Garden of England, First Snow and Chiddingstone are all titles that will be recognised by Hilder fans. We recognise Rowland’s passion for sailing - and a ‘useful sky’ – so the marine content will also be strong. We are very lucky to be able to show a few books from a private collection – all illustrated by Hilder, together with several original illustrations, some of which have never been on show before. Of this, we are sure; this man was a consummate painter and his passionate enthusiasm is his gift to us.'

Alex Patterson, Collections and Galleries Manager at The Historic Dockyard Chatham said; 'We are absolutely delighted that we can exhibit these Rowland Hilder works. One of the highlights of this wonderful exhibition for me is the reconstruction of part of Hilder’s studio – visitors will be able to capture the inspiring atmosphere of his studio and what it meant to him; his painting desk aside the massive French door window that led to the garden – with the rolling clouds above London providing an ever changing inspiration for his landscapes, with, mostly sonorous tones of Wagner accompanying his painting day.'

Also on show will be a selection of work from other talented Hilders; Edith, his wife, so skilled at her botanical watercolours; his son Anthony, another gifted marine painter (who has always painted under the name of Flemming, not wanting to piggy-back on his father’s reputation); Heather and Rado, his daughter and son-in-law, both of whom Rowland influenced with generous pointers in painting technique; and grandson Will, a talented contemporary artist, who mainly shows now in Thailand. All in all, a creative dynasty.

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