Pennoyer Centre honours England Women's Euros summer glory
A Pulham Market mum has used an art exhibition to pay tribute to the England Women’s Euros summer glory.
Back in July, Debbie Storey watched the Lionesses lift the nation’s first major silverware in 56 years with her two daughters, Gracie, 10, and Georgia, six – the former being a star player for girls’ team Long Stratton Wild Cats.
Two months later, England’s epic triumph has been immortalised at the Pennoyer Centre as part of Miss Storey’s new exhibition, Into the Wild.
Since Tuesday, visitors have been filing in to see the red, white and blue triptych of the Lionesses, which is amongst a number of pieces on display at the centre, in Station Road.
“The Lionesses have been amazing this year and a huge inspiration to thousands of young women,” said Miss Storey, 40.
“That’s what they symbolise and I wanted to put across their key attributes. This triptych pays homage to their talent, strength and determination to succeed.
“The kids and I watched it on TV, and we were just amazed by how awesome they were. My daughter plays football and she was thrilled to watch them.
“She was so inspired and would love to play for England one day herself.”
A locally renowned artist, Miss Storey is best known for her animal portraits – many of which also adorn the walls of the Pennoyer Centre this week.
Using bright, bold acrylic colours, the pictures capture the character and spirit of the natural world.
A large painting of two peacocks, The Showdown, is inspired by her family visits to Old Hall Farm in Woodton.
“My daughter loves to photograph the peacocks at Old Hall Farm and we have spent many hours watching them,” added Miss Storey, who works for South Norfolk Council.
“They are stunning birds with the most vivid plumage, which makes them wonderful to paint.”
The exhibition runs until Thursday, October 13. The Pennoyer Centre is open Monday to Saturday, from 10am to 3pm, and serves light lunches, homemade cakes, bakes and drinks.
“I’m so happy to be back at the Pennoyer Centre,” added Miss Storey, who in the past has also exhibited work there.
“It’s such a special building and the restored Guild Chapel is a wonderful space to exhibit. I have some big, bold exciting new pieces that I can’t wait to share.”