Olive Edis exhibition at Norwich Castle attracts more than 18,000 visitors

More than 18,000 people have so far flocked to see the work of pioneering photographer Olive Edis at a special exhibition at Norwich Castle.

Ms Edis, who had studios in Sheringham, was one of the most important photographers of the first half of the 20th century and the first-ever accredited female war photographer. She took pictures of everything from First World War battlefields to royalty to the fishermen of north Norfolk, and more than 190 of her photographs are currently featured in the exhibition Fishermen & Kings: The Photography of Olive Edis which opened at the castle in October and runs until January 22.

Curator Alistair Murphy, said: 'I am delighted that this exhibition is doing exactly what it set out to do – namely raise Olive Edis back to international status.

'The constant stream of visitors (more than 18,000 so far) from not just East Anglia but further afield, are clearly captivated by Olive's story and the breadth and range of her photography.

'Olive Edis' images and words from a century ago are as arresting now as they were then. They resonate clearly across the generations reaching out to a modern audience and resulting in renewed acclaim.'

The exhibition is part of the ongoing Olive Edis project supported by the Heritage Lottery Fund, which aims to boost awareness of Ms Edis' inspirational life and work. A permanent Olive Edis exhibition is due to open at Cromer Museum in March next year.

Fishermen & Kings: The Photography of Olive Edis is at Norwich Castle Museum and Art Gallery until January 22. Visit www.museums.norfolk.gov.ukDo you have a Norwich arts story? Email arts correspondent Emma Knights at emma.knights@archant.co.uk