Prolific sculpture celebrates 80th birthday with exhibition

A sculptor from Norwich is celebrating her 80th birthday with an exhibition all about her life and work.

A retrospective of Ros Newman's art has opened at the Fairhurst Gallery in Bedford Street.

  • Click below for Kate Prout’s report

Ros Newman hung up her welding torch four years ago, but for decades was a prolific artist breaking the mould.

Her sculptures can ben seen around the Norfolk and Norwich hospital as well as at Pensthorpe.

She said: “If I went into a tool shop all the men would turn and stare at me because you didn't get women there.

“I never thought anything about it, I just wanted to do what I wanted to do. It's just what I've done with my life and I feel very lucky to have been given the gift to do it.”

Ros Newman has been a prolific artist for decades. Credit: ITV News Anglia

When she had to stop welding, Ros gave her equipment to fellow artist Rachel Long who is well known for creating the Lifeboat Horse in Wells harbour.

The exhibition of Ros’ work is being held at Fairhurst Gallery in Bedford Street in Norwich.

Dulcie Humphrey, Director of the gallery, said: “We've always been great admirers of Ros' work.

“She's been practicing in Norfolk for 40 years and I've followed her work for a long time and always admired it.

“We're here on Bedford Street, tucked away, you have to come and find us. It's a really nice space. We have rolling shows every couple of months and we're really excited about having Ros here.”

The exhibition opened on February 16th.

Ros Newman is celebrating her 80th birthday. Credit: ITV News Anglia
Ros Newman's work can be seen at the Norfolk and Norwich hospital. Credit: ITV News Anglia
Ros Newman's sculptures at her home. Credit: ITV News Anglia
Ros Newman at home in Norwich. Credit: ITV News Anglia