Edward Wilson

2012 marks the centenary of the British Antarctic Expedition (more commonly known as the Terra Nova expedition) led by Captain Scott. The Polar party included Edward Wilson who came from Cheltenham.

 

Many events have been planned to commemorate the expedition both locally in Cheltenham and nationally.

Although the expedition began in 1910 it was not until November 1911 that the party set off for the South Pole. The key dates in 1912 were the 17 January when the explorers arrived at the Pole and the end of March when they died.  The last diary entry (made by Scott) was on 29 March. In Cheltenham we will also be marking Wilson’s birthday on 23 July and the date the Polar party’s bodies were found on 12 November 1912.

 

The Polar party before setting out, 28 November 1911. 
Edward Wilson is sitting on the sledge, at the front.

Cheltenham Art Gallery & Museum are holding two exhibitions. In February Snow Story an installation of art work created by children will be held at the Gardens Gallery. This is followed in March by Exploring solitude; an Antarctic commission by Neville and Joan Gabie. Both have a linked programme of family events.

 

Here on our website we are adding more information about Edward Wilson, you can explore Wilson’s Cheltenham connections and discover his art in our online exhibitions. Find out more about the Art Gallery & Museum’s collection relating to Wilson and the Antarctic by investigating our collections database.

 

If you are a teacher you can discover what we can offer schools  through our learning programmes on Edward Wilson.

 

Finally we will be adding to the website as the year progresses, with film and other information on Edward Wilson and his Cheltenham connections.

You can see more of Edward Wilson's artwork from our collections here.