Dimbola’s Summer exhibitions

J.B Priestley “The Isle of Wight Years (Main Gallery) 13th June – 13th September

This summer, Dimbola Museum & Galleries is proud to present J.B. Priestley – The Isle of Wight Years. A fascinating exhibition curated by Sophie Whittall, granddaughter of J. B. Priestley, explores the life, work, and lasting influence of one of Britain’s most celebrated literary figures

Best known today as the author of An Inspector Calls, J.B. Priestley was far more than a playwright. Over the course of his remarkable career, he wrote more than 100 books and established himself as a journalist, broadcaster, screenwriter, social commentator, critic, essayist, and campaigner. His voice helped shape public debate throughout much of the twentieth century, making him one of the most influential figures of his generation.

From 1933 to 1959, Priestley made his home on the Isle of Wight. During these years, the island’s landscapes, seascapes, walks, history, and unique character became a profound source of inspiration for his writing and thinking.

This exhibition explores Priestley’s deep connection to the island while revealing the many facets of his extraordinary life and career. Through photographs, documents, personal stories, and historical material, visitors will discover why Priestley became a true “influencer” long before the age of social media, and how his ideas continue to resonate today.

The exhibition offers a unique opportunity to learn more about a man whose influence extended far beyond literature and theatre, and whose years on the Isle of Wight played a significant role in shaping his work.

A Pictorial History of the Isle of Wight Festival 1968–2009 by Gem Bell (Studio gallery)
13th June – 31st August 2026

A vibrant exhibition celebrating the extraordinary talent and vision of Isle of Wight artist Gemma Bell.

In 2009, Gem was asked by Solo (organisers of the Isle of Wight Festival) to provide something to decorate their massive 15m x 25m V.I.P backstage tent. She set herself the challenge of creating a pictorial history of every major Isle of Wight Festival from 1968 to 2009.

Gem enjoyed combining a variety of methods to produce this body of work, from traditional drawing and painting techniques to shooting digitally through old medium format camera bodies and blending layers through the use of modern applications.

Drawing inspiration from festival posters, tickets, photographs and local memories, Gem created works that celebrate both the history of the Isle of Wight Festival and the creative spirit that continues to define it.

Although Gem Bell’s life was tragically cut short in 2011, her work remains as powerful and relevant as ever.

The exhibition will be on display in the Studio Gallery at Dimbola. Visitors can also explore the museum’s renowned collections relating to the Isle of Wight Festivals, along with the new Experience Hendrix exhibition and discover the Island’s rich cultural and musical heritage.

📷 www.dimbola.co.uk

📍 Dimbola Museum & Galleries, Terrace Lane, Freshwater PO40 9QE