Edwin Williams: Nostalgic Views of Preston

This exhibition shows a range of carefully restored photographs and a small selection of watercolours.

Following a rewarding career as an Engineer, HR Manager, and Quality Manager, Edwin has turned his lifelong interest in photography, watercolour, painting and history into a new chapter of creative exploration.

Now retired, Edwin finds great fulfilment in helping individuals and institutions including museums to connect with both social and personal histories, by aligning archival photographs and his watercolour paintings with the narratives that give them deeper meaning.

Edwin breathes new life into aged and often damaged photographs, transforming them into vivid representations that resonate with modern audiences while honouring their original context.

Watercolour painting has been Edwin’s passion for over 65 years. Throughout this journey, he has found endless joy in exploring the fluid, translucent qualities of the medium. There’s a unique magic in the way watercolour allows colours to blend and flow, creating both subtle nuances and bold expressions of emotion. It’s a balance between control and spontaneity, where each brushstroke holds the potential for unexpected beauty.

The photographs, paintings and stories included within this exhibition will spark memories, conversation, and inspiration and perhaps inspires you to explore your own creative journey.

Image credit: Harris Museum and Library from Church Street in colour: Image from the Williams family album collection – restored and coloured by Edwin Williams.