Filmmaker and avid fly-fisherman Gillean Proctor and Hardy and Greys’ Canadian agent, John Mathers, have worked together to bring the history of world-renowned angling company Hardy and Greys to life in a collection taken from covers of its angler’s guides, catalogues and other early publications.
Previewed for the first time at this year’s CLA Game Fair, the images have been beautifully restored and re-worked to create a fantastic collection of unique portraits that can be enjoyed by fishing enthusiasts for generations to come. The resulting series is on display at the House of Hardy Museum at the company’s headquarters in Alnwick.
“I created these prints in recognition of the wonderful design incorporated into Hardy’s publications over the century,” said Gillean. “With the originals being extremely rare and usually damaged, I felt that they would only be truly appreciated if they could be restored and recreated at a size that could be framed.”
The history of angling through the ages – from 1894 to 1956 – is depicted through the high quality prints, which also give a fascinating insight into the commitment to angling made by the Hardy Brothers for over a century.
William and John James Hardy formed the famous partnership in 1873 originally selling pistols and guns. A passion for angling quickly changed the direction of the business, which is now recognised today as a world leader in the production of premium quality fly fishing equipment.
Agent John Mathers said the project had evoked some wonderful personal memories:
“I am old enough to remember the smell of wet wool from flannel and tweed, pipe smoke, leather polish, rod wax, reel oil and fresh trout in the moss at the bottom of my father’s creel. I recollect his pride of ownership, duty of care, good manners on the water – and Hardy!”
Richard Sanderson, MD for Hardy Greys was delighted with the idea of reproducing the art work.
“The collectors’ market for old Hardy catalogues has become extremely popular over recent years but the very high prices which have been paid at auction for the rarer editions have put them out of reach for many enthusiasts,” he said.
“The opportunity of purchasing the cover editions of this important part of angling memorabilia will be a must-have for many Hardy fans, so these limited edition prints are likely to become very sought-after as a collectors item.”
The pictures have been printed using the highest quality fine art paper and inks. Only 500 of each are available and, at £75, they make an ideal gift. The recognised Hardy seal of authenticity along with a limited edition certificate and number are also provided.
A second collection, incorporating front covers and pages from other brochures and publications is currently underway and will be available next year.
Images and details of how to purchase the prints are available by logging on to www.hardyfineart.com or by contacting John Mathers Tel: 001 250 245 5460 or e-mail: jmathers@shaw.ca
