Brunel University is unveiling a selection of its arts collection previously unseen by the public. JERRY LYONS speaks to curator George Mogg to find out more about the hidden treasures now on show in a free exhibition

FOR decades Brunel University has been building up its art collection. Much of it has been in storage for years but now Collect dusts them off for all to see. The free exhibition is in the university's on-site arts centre, the Beldam Gallery, and runs until June 27.

George Mogg, the gallery's curator, is excited about it. She says: "It is fantastic that people will get to see the works that have been hidden treasures for a long time.

"The university's collection has grown enormously since 1966, when it was first established, and now comprises more than 600 original works of art, including paintings, prints, photography, artists' books, sculpture and silverware.

"The collection is a varied one, containing traditional figurative painting as well as very contemporary and modern works.

One piece on display is an installation of dozens of hand-constructed paper pyramids which form a complex structure of triangular planes, in a piece by Helen Tascher.

Other works include drawings by Mark Thompson, mixed media work by David Walker-Barker and original prints by Edward Bawden.

"One of my personal favourites is the Helen Tascher piece, which I think is wonderful", says George."

More than 50 pieces are on show and because the event is free, the curator expects a lot of interest.

She says: "This is a collection with something for everyone. It's very diverse and ranges from modern to classic and everything in between. I think people should really take this chance and see what's never been seen."

* George Mogg will be on hand to talk to visitors about the collection on Tuesday, June 24 between noon and 2pm.

There is an evening preview tomorrow (Thursday) from 6pm to 8pm, and a lunch-time preview on Tuesday, June 24 between noon and 2pm.

The Beldam Gallery is in the Wilfred Brown Building, Brunel University, Kingston Lane, Uxbridge. It is open Monday to Friday, from 9am to 5pm.

For more information call 01895 266 074 or see www.brunel.ac.uk/beldamgallery