Four decades, one passion: Aunt and nephew to exhibit together at Ascott Estate
This June, as part of Bucks Art Weeks, Wing's Ascott Estate will host a unique exhibition featuring two artists connected by more than just blood.
Jay Nolan-Latchford and her nephew, Joe Byerley, will showcase their work together for the first time as part of a group show of 15 local artists - a collaboration 40 years in the making.
The pair share a remarkable academic history, having attended the same Buckinghamshire art college exactly four decades apart. Amersham and Wycombe College served as the foundational bedrock for both their careers, fostering a shared creative DNA that spans generations.
‘I feel quite honoured to have followed in her footsteps,’ says Joe. ‘It's definitely brought us even closer together.’
The full-circle nature of their relationship was captured in June 2022. As Joe prepared to depart for his photography degree in Bath, he organised a surprise private tour for Jay (or 'Auntie DoDo' as he affectionately calls her) of the very studios where she first began her artistic journey at the age of 16.
For Joe, having a mentor within the family has been invaluable. ‘We both come from quite an academically driven family, so to have an aunt like Jay is a real gift,’ he explains. ‘To have someone who understands me, who I can bounce ideas off and share the same excitement for our passions with, is a real privilege. I consider her a real hero of mine.’
‘It was a wonderful surprise that brought back so many memories,’ says Jay of the tour. ‘I can't wait to be exhibiting together for the first time at Ascott House. It feels like something really special.’
Visitors to the show at Ascott House and Gardens will have the opportunity to see how these parallel paths have converged. The exhibition runs from 2nd to 17th June and is part of the county-wide Bucks Art Weeks, celebrating the best of regional makers and artists in action.
You can plan your day out by going to www.bucksartweeks.org.uk and using the interactive map to find more artists and makers that interest you. Pick up a free loyalty card and visit five venues this June and you will qualify for a prize draw to win £100 worth of art. With a plethora of local arts, crafts and gifts, experience all the creativity that is just waiting at your doorstep and take some time to plan a fun day out this summer!