Our festive South West Fed gathering at the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum was a standout moment of the season. On a wild, rain-lashed Bournemouth afternoon, the house offered a wonderfully warm welcome, reminding us just how enchanting this extraordinary Victorian villa truly is.
One of the day’s highlights was a fascinating talk and candid Q&A with Sarah Newman, Head of the Russell-Cotes, who spoke openly about the realities of running such a remarkable historic house. Her reflections on tight budgets, unpredictable coastal weather, and the challenges of a tourist-led visitor economy were eye-opening, and a testament to the dedication and resilience required to keep this unique museum thriving.
We were also treated to lively, whistle-stop tours with both Sarah and Curator Duncan Walker, who brought the stories of the house and its remarkable collections to life. Seeing treasures such as Rossetti’s Venus Verticordia up close, still displayed in the rooms they were once lived with, was a rare privilege and a reminder of how immersive and distinctive this museum truly is.
A powerful highlight was the exhibition Artists as Witness: The Impact of War, which spans from the First World War to contemporary conflicts including Ukraine. Featuring painting, photography, sculpture and mixed media, it explores trauma, resilience and the role of artists in documenting truths that might otherwise remain hidden. Beautifully curated and deeply moving, it is worth a visit in its own right.
The afternoon rounded off with time to connect with fellow members over mince pies and mulled wine, a relaxed, thoughtful, and inspiring way to end the year.
Events like this are exactly what South West Fed membership offers: insider access, real conversations with sector leaders, rich behind-the-scenes insight, and the chance to network with colleagues in welcoming, inspiring settings.
If you want to deepen your professional connections, spark new ideas, and experience the region’s heritage in a way few others can, join us, and be part of a community that learns, shares and grows together.
