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A Pictorial History of the Isle of Wight Festival 1968–2009 by Gem Bell

Next: Thursday, 25 June 2026

Runs until Monday, 31 August 2026 (See all dates)

Time
10:00 - 16:00
Venue
Dimbola Museum & Galleries, Freshwater, PO40 9QE
Price
Admission rates apply

A vibrant exhibition showcasing the extraordinary talent and vision of artist Gem Bell.

In 2009 Gem was asked by Solo (organisers of the Isle of Wight Festival) to provide something to decorate their massive 15m x 25m V.I.P backstage tent. She set herself the challenge of creating a pictorial history of every major Isle of Wight Festival from 1968 to 2009.

Gem enjoyed combining a variety of methods to produce this body of work, from traditional drawing and painting techniques to shooting digitally through old medium format camera bodies and blending layers through the use of modern applications.

Drawing inspiration from festival posters, tickets, photographs and local memories, Gem created works that celebrate both the history of the Isle of Wight Festival and the creative spirit that continues to define it.

Although Gem Bell's life was tragically cut short in 2011, her work remains as powerful and relevant as ever.

The exhibition is on display in the Studio Gallery at Dimbola.

Visitors can also explore the museum's renowned collections relating to the Isle of Wight Festivals along with the new Experience Hendrix exhibition and discover the Island’s rich cultural and musical heritage.

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Venue

Dimbola Museum & Galleries
Terrace Lane
Freshwater
PO40 9QE

More details for this venue

Dates

The event runs from 10:00 to 16:00 on the following dates.
Select a date to add this event to your calendar app.

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