ENJOY A SPECIAL NEW DISPLAY FROM THE SHEPHERD NEAME ARCHIVES

An exhibition of historic brewing artwork from Shepherd Neame’s archives is now on show at Faversham Town Hall.

The display has been created by the independent family brewer’s resident Archivist-Historian John Owen, to coincide with the popular Faversham Hop Festival taking place this weekend (Saturday, September 3 and Sunday, September 4).

It showcases a series of posters called Tavern Topics, illustrated by artist Clive Uptton, which was commissioned by Whitbread Brewery in 1949 to encourage people to understand the brewing industry. A total of 20 posters were created, on subjects that remain topical today, including hop picking, how beer is brewed and the welcoming nature of pubs.  They were produced by the Brewers’ Society and issued to breweries and pub companies across the country for promotional purposes. 

Known for his distinctive designs of the vintage Ladybird books, Uptton also created advertisements for GEC, Johnny Walker, Mars, Guinness, Kellogg’s and Nestle. 

Shepherd Neame’s resident Archivist-Historian John Owen said: “The Tavern Topics are a delightful series of illustrations helping people to understand all aspects of brewing. Although the series was discontinued in 1950 the topics remained current, just as they are today 72 years later.

“Today these posters are extremely rare, and it has been a joy to work with Margate Print Services, who have successfully restored the original works to their full glory. The exhibition will be on show for at least three weeks and I hope many visitors enjoy them and perhaps learn something about the art of brewing.”

The pieces will be displayed at Faversham Town Hall, 12 Market Place, which is open Monday – Saturday from 10am – 4pm, and Sunday 11am – 4pm. For visitors who wish to see the display over the Faversham Hop Festival, please note the Town Hall will be open from 12noon on Saturday and 11am Sunday.