“Snap Time” by Charlie Baillie
BEKMM: 2019.21.3
This month’s object has been chosen by one of Kent Mining Museum’s Learning and Engagement Officers Stacy Golding.
“From the moment I encountered this painting it drew me in. For me, the looming wooden supports together with the darkness of the surroundings paints a scene of isolation and eeriness. Despite this overwhelming backdrop you see the two miners (with what looks likes smiles on their faces) going about their daily business, enjoying their snap, and perhaps sharing a joke or two.
“I see something new in the painting every time, and I hope visitors to the museum enjoy pondering its story as much as I have.”
Charlie Baillie was a miner at Chislet Colliery, who later transferred to Snowdown in 1969. He was also a well-known pit artist who studied at Canterbury College. This painting is one of a series done by him which depict scenes of life down in the pit.
Stacy’s father, George Shiel Jr., and grandfather, George Shiel Sr., were also miners at Chislet Colliery.