Art and nature lovers are invited to discover the beauty of Exmoor through the eyes of a celebrated British painter in the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon's summer exhibition, Sir Alfred Munnings: Exmoor Through the Seasons.

Now open and running until 10 October, the exhibition showcases paintings, sketchbooks, diary entries and poetry by Sir Alfred Munnings, who made Exmoor his home during the Second World War. Together, the works reveal his love of the landscape, its changing seasons, its people and its iconic Exmoor ponies.

Best known as one of England's greatest equestrian artists, Munnings enjoyed an extraordinary career despite losing an eye at the age of 21.

He was elected President of the Royal Academy of Arts in 1944 and became one of the country's leading cultural figures, receiving commissions from prominent patrons, including members of the Royal Family. A series of free talks by experts will enable visitors to delve deeper into various aspects of Munnings’ art and life.

Inspired by Munnings' passion for painting outdoors, the Museum has partnered with North Devon Arts to offer a series of artist-led en plein air sessions throughout the summer in Barnstaple and on Exmoor. The sessions form part of this year's national Big Draw Festival 2026 and provide participants with the opportunity to develop their own artistic skills while seeing Barnstaple through new eyes, as well as exploring the landscapes that inspired Munnings. Tickets are available through the Museum's website.

The exhibition also inspires the Museum's popular Curious Creators programme of free family activities offered during the school holidays. Every Wednesday, local artists will lead free drop-in art, craft and storytelling sessions for children and their parents or carers. On Wednesday 19 August, visitors can also enjoy the opportunity to meet animals from Exmoor Zoo. No booking is required, and full programme details are available on the Museum's website.

Nicole Hickin, Collections and Access Manager at the Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon, said: "We’re delighted to have been able to collaborate with the Munnings Art Museum in Colchester in bringing these wonderful art works and objects of local relevance to our visitors in Barnstaple. The exhibition celebrates both Munnings' artistic legacy and the timeless beauty of Exmoor. With its ever-changing landscapes, local communities and Exmoor ponies, it’s a place that continues to inspire creativity today. Indeed, they’ve inspired the Museum’s own fantastic programme of events this summer, which invites visitors of all ages to get creative, whether by attending the outdoor drawing and painting sessions or by getting involved with our regular family activities."

Sir Alfred Munnings: Exmoor Through the Seasons is open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 4.30pm. Entrance is free.

For details about the en plein air sessions, the free exhibition talks and the Curious Creators programme of family-friendly activities, visit the Museum’s website, barnstaplemuseum.org.uk