On a beautiful early autumn afternoon a small group of Capel Ladies went to visit the Alfred Munnings Museum at Dedham. If you have never visited here it is well worth the short trip.

We all enjoyed looking at his paintings, many of horses, which were his first love, but also landscapes – a number of which were local scenes of Dedham Vale and the River Stour. There was also a special exhibition entitled “Munnings and the River” which included a lovely series of pictures showing ladies boating on the Stour at Flatford. Everything is well explained with clear information to read, and very helpful Guides in each room.

The house – which was Munnings’ well-loved home, is also very interesting, with much of his original furniture, books, sculptures and china still there, exactly as it was in his lifetime. After a pleasant time in the house we moved on to his studio to see where he painted, with more exhibits in here too.

The afternoon finished with our group enjoying delicious, very generous pieces of cake sitting outside in the Garden Café, watching the horses in the adjoining field – rather apt considering Munnings’ love of horses. You can find out more about the museum by visiting its website: www.munningsmuseum.org.uk

(Report by Di Barker)