A Westbury woman is holding a special art exhibition to pay tribute to her late brother, which will feature over 80 pieces of art by the siblings.
Lesley Longworth is an artist who specialises in portraits. Her late brother, Tom Stimpson, was an internationally renowned artist and illustrator.
His work includes the poster for the cult classic Killer Klowns from Outer Space as well as Pan Book covers for authors such as Wilbur Smith, Dick Francis and Jackie Collins.
One of his life mottos Lesley recalls was ‘I don’t go to work, I do what I love every day.’
‘Two Lives’ is open daily at 90 Westbury Leigh from 11am until 22nd June. After that, the exhibition — which features over 80 pieces of art by London-born Tom and Lesley — will be available to view by appointment until October.
Lesley said, “His output was astronomical. Tom died suddenly in 1992 and, because the internet exploded only after, I feel his work never got the attention it deserves.”
This month would have marked Tom’s 70th birthday, making the project even more poignant for Lesley. Alongside the artwork, she also has childhood drawings by the siblings and family mementos which tell the story of Tom’s fascinating life.
News of her exhibition has even reached the PAN Fans Club, a group that celebrates the ‘golden age’ of PAN Paperbacks – a company for which Tom designed many book covers between 1945 and 1970.
Lesley added, “This exhibition has been a personal journey for me, and I really want to celebrate what Tom did. There is a lot for people to see.
“Tom’s drive, commitment and passion for his work drove him forward – his genius was clear to see. His work, his two wonderful boys, and the cherished memories in the hearts of those who knew him are his legacy.”
To visit the exhibition, email lesleylongworth@hotmail.com
Pictured at top: Lesley Longworth and her brother Tom Stimpson in London.
