Works of artist Tom Cross go on display in Penryn Campus

Several art works by Tom Cross, former head of Falmouth School of Art, have gone on display at Falmouth University after their donation by his family.

Tom Cross was head of the school from 1976 to 1987, during which time there were many significant changes for the school. As an artist he remained consistent in leading by example throughout his time at the school; actively maintaining his career as a painter so he could lead the students by example.

The new pieces – In A Window, Interior of a Room, and Hall’s Wood – are now on display at Falmouth University’s Penryn Campus. They were officially unveiled at a reception on Thursday 11 July.

Professor Emma Hunt, Vice-Chancellor of Falmouth University, said:

“We are delighted to have been entrusted with these works by the family of Tom Cross. Our heritage is important to the University. Displaying these works and growing the archive is a further entrenchment of those links from the past to present day, as well as serving as inspiration to our staff and students as we pursue our creative endeavours”

David Cross, son of Tom, speaking on behalf of his family, said:

“We are so pleased that the University has embraced these works which complement the Tom Cross archives that were gifted to the University in 2009 together with Thirds – a large abstract painting which is on display at Falmouth Campus. The paintings give relevance to the sketchbooks, and vice versa, so students and the public can see the detailed approach that was taken in the preparation of the final works. We hope that students will continue to benefit from the archives and use the paintings and the sketchbooks in future years.”