Tony’s drawing by William James Müller

by Martha Robbins, Development Officer

On 14 February, Bristol Museum & Art Gallery welcomed friends of the late Tony Merriman for a celebratory tea party.

Last year Tony’s wife, Anne launched a fundraiser to acquire a drawing by William James Müller in memory of Tony. Having hit their target, the tea party was a chance for everyone to see the drawing in person.

It was an emotional and joyful event, with friends meeting for the first time in years to catch up over tea and cake. The newly acquired Müller sat centre stage, near a smiling photo of Tony.

Curator of Visual Arts, Kate Newnham, spoke about the secrets hidden in the drawing. Müller was born in Bristol and is the best-known artist of the Bristol School. He was also the son of the first curator of The Bristol Institute, which we now call Bristol Museum & Art Gallery.

Former art curators, Karin Walton and Sheena Stoddard presented Anne with a bouquet of flowers as a token of thanks for the Merriman’s commitment to the museum.

Tony was treasurer of the Friends of Bristol Museums, which acquired many pieces for the museum. He was also a great fan of Müller’s work. Anne said the drawing is the perfect memorial for her late husband, as he loved Bristol Museum & Art Gallery dearly.

With thanks

Bristol Museum Development Trust would like to thank everyone involved with this fundraiser. If this story has inspired you, and you would like to support our charity by leaving a gift in your will, or by undertaking a memorial fundraiser, please do get in touch.

We would love to support you and create an equally meaningful and personal experience as the friends of Tony Merriman.

Please email Caroline Booth-Morris for more information.

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Image: Friends of Tony Merriman stood around the drawing by Muller at Bristol Museum & Art Gallery.