A new exhibition by acclaimed Bedford-based artist and art educator David Lewry is set to open at the Basement at Bunyan on Mill Street at the end of this month.
“Bedford at Work” is a compelling collection of over 35 hand-drawn portraits in coloured pencil, capturing the spirit and diversity of Bedford’s working people.
This ambitious series, created from David’s own photography, features local workers, business owners, and tradespeople, all drawn with David’s remarkable precision and care.
Each portrait takes up to 30 hours to complete, with meticulous attention to detail and deep respect for his subjects.
“From a mechanic to a florist, a dentist to a dog groomer, and including market traders, a pharmacist, a school teacher, a minister, a funeral director, and local shopkeepers, the collection celebrates the people who form the backbone of Bedford’s everyday life,” said David.
“It also honours the contributions of local charity workers, including those from Canine Partners and Riding for the Disabled, highlighting the compassionate heart of the community.
“And yes — the series includes a butcher and a baker, though not (yet!) a candlestick maker.”
An artist on land and sea
A familiar figure on the local art scene, David has taught for many years at the Rothsay Education Centre, in addition to running his own popular art classes both in person and online.
His teaching career has even extended to the high seas, where he taught art on over 20 international cruises, including voyages to the Amazon Rain Forest. David is also a medal-winning Botanical Artist with the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) and has been featured in numerous art books and magazines, including the esteemed Art with the Eden Project series.
David lives and works in the village of Milton Ernest with his wife Liz, where he continues to draw inspiration from the local landscape and community.
The “Bedford at Work” exhibition will be held at the Basement Art Gallery, Bunyan Museum, Mill Street, Bedford, and will be free to the public from 28th October to 1st November.
A special private viewing will take place on Monday, 27 October, where many of the individuals featured will see their framed and mounted portraits unveiled for the first time.
This exhibition is not only a testament to David Lewry’s artistic talent but also a powerful tribute to Bedford’s working community—capturing everyday people with dignity, personality, and artistic excellence.
Celebrating Bedford’s Working Community: David Lewry’s “Bedford at Work”, Tuesday, 28 October – Saturday, 1 November
Basement at Bunyan, Mill Street, MK40 3EU | Free entry
