Grantee log-in 
articleindex followcenterhttps://www.communityfoundation.org.uk/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/2-SCH-Portraits-Taking-Mrs-Hunting-down.jpgcentermodule_group modules Array 1 https://www.communityfoundation.org.uk/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/2-SCH-Portraits-Taking-Mrs-Hunting-down.jpg The painting of Mrs Hunting being taken down for restoration.
Lifesize portraits of two distinguished Slaley grandees have undergone a major clean up and restoration and are once again hanging in Slaley Commemoration Hall in time for its centenary celebrations. The Carroll Savage Fund at the Community Foundation Tyne & Wear and Northumberland provided a grant for the restoration work undertaken by Ana Flynn and her team at the Laing Art Gallery, Newcastle.
The separate portraits of Charles and Agnes Mona Hunting, painted in 1915, became a hallmark of the village venue, built to commemorate the safe return of their sons from the Great War. The Hunting Family gave the hall to the community in December 1922 and it provides activities and community space for up to 300 people each year.
Michelle Hardie, Philanthropy Advisor at the Community Foundation said:
“The grant has allowed for the preservation of artistically-valuable heritage artefacts that are a source of great community pride. The restoration ensures that the paintings will be on display and enjoyed for generations to come.”
The work on the paintings coincided with a broader refurbishment taking place at the hall, in time for their centenary celebrations.
Debra Taylor, a trustee of the hall, said:
“Having the paintings cleaned, restored and now back taking pride of place in the Commemoration Hall is a lovely way to remember the family who originally gave the land and building to the Slaley community.
“The Hall has undergone extensive refurbishment in the last year and our new extension will be completed in the summer. Having Charles and Agnes Mona back, and having discovered more about the paintings, is the icing on the cake. A huge thank you to the Community Foundation, the Carroll Savage Fund and to Ana at the Laing Gallery who have made this possible.”
For more information about funding opportunities at the Community Foundation visit www.communityfoundation.org.uk/apply