Over 60 works, ranging from A4 drawings in charcoal to 4ft x 8ft oil paintings were executed in difficult and sometimes dangerous conditions, ranging from muddy ravines in bitterly cold winds and sleet, to long deserted tunnels, infantry shelters and underground forts, illuminated only by his paraffin lamps and helmet-light.

These adverse conditions contribute to the vigour and emotive power of the works produced.

Sometimes describing himself as a “visual archaeologist” Perry’s intimate knowledge of the area is gained from direct personal exploration on the ground. Twelve years of walking, drawing, and studying the battlefields, meeting, talking (and drinking) with people who have grown up in the area, whose grandfathers suffered and died in those bitter conflicts of 1916, gives this exhibition, sometimes subtitled “Echoes of War” a poignancy that evokes strong emotional as well as artistic responses.

As with all his exhibitions, the work produced on location is backed up by information panels featuring documentary photographs, maps and insights provided by excerpts from his field diaries.

Supporting illustrated slide lectures, some video footage and “Meet the Artist” sessions are also available.

Merchandise. Postcards and booklets are available.

This collection can be extended and augmented by numerous works from earlier expeditions, and, with (in 2004) the forthcoming 90th anniversary of the outbreak of the Great War, could be combined with its sister exhibition ” THE SOMME” to form an exhibition (on the theme of ‘Echoes of War’ ) of major proportions.

A book documenting his work and experiences in Verdun and the Somme is in preparation. A book documenting his work and experiences in Verdun and the Somme is in preparation.

View video footage (Courtesy of BBC TV)