The Russell–Cotes Art Gallery and Museum , Bournemouth (originally owned and latterly donated to the town by Sir Merton and Annie Russell-Cotes) hosted a Masked Evening Salon as part of the “Arts by the Sea Festival on Friday 19th October to celebrate the return of Albert Moore’s spectacular painting “Midsummer” which had just returned from an international tour for the last two years.
One hundred guest (including the current Mayor and Mayoress of Bourenmouth ) dressed in period costumes, mask and armed with fans attended the evening which provided entertainment by local musicians Matt Black, Andrew McCutchion, Valeria Poat and Joe Potter.
A demonstration of the Language of the Fan was given by Hazel Evans. Lucy “Twinks” Burnett performed Burlesque dancing.
MC for the evening Bournemouth’s Grand Slam Poetry Champion 2012 Steve Biddle read a set of poems he was commissioned to write especially for the event.
At the end of the evening guest were invited to adjourn to a Post-Salon gathering in the main bar of the Royal Bath Hotel, which was also once owned by Sir Merton and Annie Russell—Cotes.
The Museum is open to the public daily from Tuesday to Sunday, and Bank Holidays with free entry from October to March. Why not pay a visit and explore this wonderful venue .
by Annie Christopher (photograph courtesy of Mel Bray)
