This summer, Leamington's art gallery and museum plays host to an exquisite exhibition of work from the collection of one of the 20th Century's most colourful writers. Osbert Sitwell ( 1892 -1969 ). The arts became his lifelong passion at the age of 19, when he first saw Stravinsky's Firebird at Covent Garden. For the following 20 years he was, together with his brother Sacheverell and his sister Edith, at the forefront of artistic circles in London. He became a friend and patron of many of the leading artists featured in the show at the Royal Pump Rooms, including John Piper, Severini, Paul Nash, Rex Whistler, Wyndham Lewis, Edward Wolfe as well as composer William Walton.

The exhibition, organised by Lady Penelope and Sir Reresby Sitwell, links to the Warwick and Leamington Festival ( 2- 14 July ), which in part celebrates the work of William walton ( 1902 - 1983 ) on the centenary of his birth. Sir Reresby Sitwell will talk on the life and times of Osbert Sitwell on Thursday 25 July 2002 6.30pm. To book please telehone 01926 742700

For further information please contact:

Sara Hughes - Events and Exhibitions officer on 01926 742702. email Sara hughes or

Sara Dewbury Assistant on 01926 742709. email Sara Dewsbury

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'The Scene Shifters ( 1935 )' detail Pavel Tchelitchew

copyright Osbert Sitwell Collection

| 4 July - 31 August 2002 |