Snowdrops : Ground Floor. Lesley Linley, Rebecca Morledge, Martin Sloman, Liz Wellby, Cheryl Wilbraham.
During February 2026, artists Lesley Linley, Cheryl Wilbraham, Liz Wellby, Martin Sloman and Rebecca Morledge took part in a residency inspired by the famous snowdrop displays at Hopton Hall.
The snowdrop, long associated with purity, resilience and new beginnings, became the central inspiration for a range of artistic responses.
The artists explored the theme through a variety of media and approaches, from close observation of nature to more symbolic and interpretive works.
Together, the artworks reflect the snowdrop’s symbol of renewal and the transition from winter into spring.
Throughout the residency, the artists immersed themselves in the Hopton Hall landscape, drawing inspiration from the snowdrops that fill the grounds each year.
Visitors to the café enjoyed live artist demonstrations, watching painting and printmaking techniques inspired by the flowers.
Using delicate watercolour and printmaking methods, the artists captured the subtle forms, soft light and gentle movement of the snowdrops.
The February residency marked the beginning of a longer creative project that continued throughout the year.
The artists developed the ideas and inspiration gathered at Hopton Hall towards a dedicated exhibition at Hopton Hall Gallery in February 2027.
Special thanks are extended to all the artists for their enthusiasm, creativity and the wonderful work already produced.
Artists already confirmed for next year’s café programme include Kate Dawes, Sarah Godfrey and Kathryn Sibley, with Cheryl Wilbraham and Martin Sloman also returning.
