Established in 1927 and joining the well known brand of the Best Western Group of hotels in 1993 The Hotel Bristol in Newquay has a long history and is a well known part of the Narrowcliff skyline.
The exterior is impressive and distinctive with magnificent revolving doors in the main entrance. When you walk inside the hotel you get a sense of history with a dash of luxury as some of the art deco features have been kept and carefully restored.
As I walked towards reception I already started to spot some artwork I recognised. Unable to attend the hanging of the paintings I was keen to explore and see where our 36 paintings had been hung. At reception I explained I was part of the Newquay Society of Artists; here to see the exhibition and take some photos. The receptionist was extremely friendly and called over someone to walk through the hotel with us as we searched for the artwork.
Each member of the society had the opportunity to submit two pieces of art for display. I was aware that not all paintings had yet been displayed with more to hang soon, but I was keen to see what was on show so far.
To the left of reception there is a bar and TV room with the dining room to the right, it was like a treasure hunt going through the communal areas spotting the work. With a great selection of local views on show from ‘Huer’s Hut’ by Claire Reid, ‘View overlooking Tolcarne Beach’ by Julia Pascoe, ‘Newquay Island’ by Sue Park, ‘Fistral Surfing and Walking’ by Mervyn Mitchell… too many to name! Along with some other gems to be seen covering other areas of Cornwall and beyond.
One of the central pieces had to be Pat Cunningham’s work of horses ‘Running Free’, a large impressive canvas on the stairs giving that wow factor as you start to ascend to the first floor. I was pleased to see one of my beachscape paintings ‘Beach Holidays’ up in the bar, and I’m looking forward to seeing where my second painting will go.
Everyone was very friendly and helpful when we visited. However there are big changes ahead; in 2021 the hotel was sold to a property developer in Manchester, we know that there are plans for regeneration for this hotel and the surrounding area which has caused a lot of controversy. But I don’t want to talk about what might be, but what is; and I’m really proud that we’ve been able to be a little part of the hotel before any changes take place.
Why not make an afternoon of it and pop over to see the local art and have a Cornish afternoon tea. Indulge in a feast for the eyes and a feast for the belly with some tasty homemade sandwiches, cakes and scones.
A big thanks to Gail and Dave from the hotel for their help in choosing and hanging the paintings, and a big thanks to Joy and Jean from the society for organising this exhibition.
You can see the paintings at the hotel until the end of the year.
