Exhibition inspired by gay WW2 lovers opens

An intriguing art exhibition inspired by the love letters exchanged between two gay soldiers during World War Two has recently opened its doors to the public. This unique display, created by artist Megan Hayward, is located in an old yoga center in Oswestry. Visitors to the exhibition have the opportunity to listen to audio recordings of these poignant letters through a vintage rotary phone, which adds a nostalgic touch to the experience. Megan Hayward has gathered numerous love letters from various individuals and transformed them into audio for this special exhibition. She shared, 'We just put a call out to hear stories from across the decades. someone came forward with love letters that their grandmother had received. ' These letters, dating back to the 1940s, reveal the deep emotions and connections that existed during a time when being gay was not widely accepted. The exhibition will remain open until September 28, providing a chance for many to explore the theme of love throughout history. The exhibition features a thoughtfully designed living room setting, where guests can sit on a blue chair and pick up the rotary phone to listen to the heartfelt letters. Megan reflected on the differences between communication then and now, stating, 'Now everything's so instant, if you don’t get a reply within an hour you think: 'Have I done something wrong? ' I can’t imagine what it would’ve been like back then, waiting weeks for a letter and a hope that you’re still loved. ' This exhibition not only highlights the letters between the two soldiers but also includes modern stories from visitors who share how their parents met, emphasizing that love has always been a significant part of human experience, regardless of the era. The letters that inspired this exhibition were written between Gilbert Bradley and Gordon Bowsher. In 1939, Gilbert was stationed at Park Hall Camp in Oswestry, while Gordon was stationed at various locations across the country. During this time, being gay was a serious offense, and they had to keep their love hidden from the world. The letters were discovered after Gilbert's passing in 2008, when a house clearance company sold them to a dealer who specializes in military mail. Now, these letters are on display at the Oswestry Town Museum, where they tell a remarkable story of love that has endured through the years, showcasing the power of love in the face of adversity.