‘A life in Art’ – Mike Perry, The Folkestone Miniaturist
Meet the Man behind the Miniaturist!
Last chance to see the exhibition – must end 30th August!
Mike Perry moved to Folkestone in 2017 and has become known as ‘The Folkestone Miniaturist’. But his association with Kent stretches much further back and out of the realms of modelmaking and into film, television, and theatre. Folkestone Museum is pleased to host Mike’s lifetime work as our summer exhibition – his ‘life in art’…
In Mike’s own words:
“I have chosen to show my life in art, concentrating on the 3D aspects of my work, with supporting photos, plans and sketches. I have begun with my earliest models and designs, which although accurate and practical, were not sufficiently creative or fulfilling for me.
I then studied theatre design at Birmingham College of Art and worked at the Birmingham Repertory Theatre producing costume and set designs. My decision to go to college was formed by my very first design in the Sixth Form at school where my concept was chosen for the school production of HMS Pinafore – and where I learnt to paint trompe l’oeil scenery!
After Birmingham I became a television and film designer, creating full size visual fantasies. My favourite work was the BAFTA nominated ‘Auf Wiedersehen Pet.’ I was also fortunate to be an assistant art director on several films including Peter Collinson’s ‘The Italian Job’ and Lindsay Anderson’s ‘If.’ I have also made many props, drawn posters, illustrated books and designed areas for several theme parks.
My television career led to me becoming Head of Design at TVS Television and thus began my life in Kent. I also taught art at Nottingham Trent University, Suffolk College of Art, and Mid Kent College before moving to Folkestone and exploring new creative methods.”
The exhibition opens on Tuesday 18th July and closes on Saturday 26th August, open hours are 10.00am to 4.00pm; last entry to the exhibition at 3.30pm.
For further details email enquiries@folkestone-tc.gov.uk, call 01303 257946 and select option 0 (office hours only) or call into Folkestone Museum & Town Hall.
