Artist's town childhood reflected in major retrospective exhibition

THE career of a Grimsby artist spanning more than 60 years is being celebrated in a new exhibition at a town museum.

David Tarttelin: A Painter's Life showcases the work of the former Wintringham Grammar School pupil, now 80, who has exhibited his pictures across the country in major shows and galleries including the Royal Academy in London.

His collection covers many different styles including landscapes, portraits, highly detailed narrative paintings, allegorical biblical works, racehorses and abstract pieces, including striking Cubist works.

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Mr Tarttelin, who taught at the town's School of Art for more than 30 years, said: "Many of my paintings reflect aspects of my childhood in Grimsby.

"Most of my relatives worked in the fish processing industry and I remember the smell of fish and smokehouses, the sound of clogs on the pavement, buzzers from the docks and sirens on the river during the foggy nights.

"There was a good deal of poverty seen on the streets in days and these days have played an important part in shaping my work."

Councillor Steve Hocknell, North East Lincolnshire Council's portfolio holder for culture and leisure, said: "We are delighted to be able to exhibit the works of such a celebrated and renowned local artist."

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