The 500th Anniversary Sedbergh Exhibition
I recently had the privilege of having my work, And When in Days Hereafter, showcased as part of Sedbergh School’s 500th Anniversary Exhibition at Bridgewater Hall. The event, which celebrated five centuries of the school’s history, was a vibrant gathering of current students, alumni, and both current and former staff. It was truly special to see our community come together, not only to honor the school’s past but also to look forward with creativity and inspiration.
The 500th Anniversary Exhibition was held at the iconic Bridgewater Hall, a venue that added its own historical and cultural significance to the celebration. Alongside the visual displays, the exhibition was paired with a concert, creating a rich sensory experience that combined both art and music. This multi-disciplinary approach perfectly captured the creative spirit that defines Sedbergh School, making it an event to remember.
Seeing the diverse range of contributions—from art created by current students and alumni to works by past staff members—was a reminder of the enduring bonds within our community. The atmosphere was one of deep reflection and shared pride, as everyone present celebrated the legacy and continued journey of the school.
Rhiannon Piper, And When in Days Hereafter, 2025. Oil on Canvas.
And When in Days Hereafter is an evocative piece that serves as a reflective ode to Sedbergh School, encapsulating its rich history and enduring sense of community. The painting is steeped in symbolism, with every element thoughtfully composed to tell a story of time, memory, and connection.
The monochromatic palette, dominated by earthy browns, not only conveys a sense of timelessness and nostalgia but also serves as a deliberate nod to the school's signature colour. These warm hues echo the natural materials of the Sedbergh landscape—stone, wood, and soil—thereby linking the piece directly to the institution's geographical and historical roots. The restrained colour scheme encourages viewers to focus on texture, light, and shadow, each of which plays a pivotal role in deepening the work’s narrative.
At the heart of the composition, a young woman is depicted seated by a window, engrossed in reading. Her quiet contemplation embodies the reflective spirit that Sedbergh instills in its students. The open book in her hands stands as a symbol of knowledge and the continuous pursuit of learning (see if you can identify the book!), while the carefully arranged objects on the table—a vase of flowers and a tea cup—evoke the simple yet profound beauty of everyday life. These details capture fleeting moments that form the tapestry of memory.
Beyond the window, the school itself subtly emerges in the background, nestled within the rolling hills that have long defined the character of Sedbergh. These hills are more than a picturesque backdrop—they are an intrinsic part of the school’s identity - especially Winder. This view acts as both a literal and figurative anchor for the painting, grounding the composition in a specific place while symbolizing the broader legacy of the Sedbergh community. The enduring presence of the school in the distance is a reminder of its ongoing influence, shaping the lives of those who pass through its doors.
The lamb, positioned near the lower left of the composition, is a particularly poignant symbol. It recalls Sedbergh’s rural setting while also evoking themes of innocence, renewal, and pastoral tradition. Its curious gaze toward the viewer creates a sense of intimacy and connection, further enhancing the painting’s reflective tone.
A particularly intriguing element is the painting positioned on the right-hand side of the canvas and the books on the shelves. Their identity and significance are left open to viewers discovery, inviting viewers to engage actively with the work.
I encourage you to look closely and try to discern its meaning—a hidden personal narrative that complements the overall reflection on time, memory, and the evolution of life at Sedbergh.
Through its careful attention to detail and layered symbolism, And When in Days Hereafter transcends a simple visual narrative. It is both a personal reflection on the cherished days spent at Sedbergh and a broader meditation on the passage of time. The painting invites viewers to linger, explore its hidden meanings, and connect with their own memories of the school and its enduring spirit.
I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to contribute to such an important milestone. The reception to And When in Days Hereafter was heartwarming, and the encouraging words from many within our community made the experience even more memorable. Events like this reinforce the power of art to connect us with our past while inspiring our future.
As Sedbergh School moves forward, I am proud to have been part of an exhibition that not only commemorated 500 years of history but also highlighted the enduring creativity and communal spirit that makes the school unique. Here’s to many more years of reflection, creativity, and shared experiences.
Feel free to share your thoughts or memories of Sedbergh—every reflection adds another layer to our collective story.
