A retired aerospace engineer has dedicated seven years to an ambitious creative project that vividly reconnects Preston with its past, and the finished work is now being exhibited at The Harris museum.
Edwin Williams, aged 72, grew up in the Deepdale area of Preston and currently lives in Farington. He is presenting 40 works in a new exhibition titled Nostalgic Views of Preston, which has earned a prominent place in Gallery Two of The Harris following the museum’s recent reopening. Securing space in this gallery is considered a significant achievement, reflecting the quality and appeal of the exhibition.
The collection includes 33 carefully restored and digitally recoloured historical photographs depicting Preston and nearby areas, alongside seven original watercolour paintings created by Edwin. Together, these pieces offer a richly textured portrait of the city’s heritage, blending historical accuracy with artistic interpretation.
Each artwork is displayed with detailed background information, allowing visitors not only to appreciate the images visually but also to gain a deeper understanding of the people, places, and stories behind them. The exhibition is designed to take visitors on both an educational and emotional journey through Preston’s history.
Edwin spent 42 years working as an engineer for British Aerospace before retiring, and he credits his lifelong interest in preserving local history to the influence of his parents. He recalls watching his father painstakingly hand-colour photographs using ink, while his mother collected postcards, photographs, and historical documents related to Preston.
“The idea really grew from seeing my dad work on his photographs,” Edwin explained. “My mum was always gathering anything connected to Preston’s past. In many ways, this exhibition is my way of honouring them both.”
After retiring, Edwin began carefully sourcing historic images, restoring them, and digitally recolouring them — a highly detailed and time-consuming process that unfolded over several years. At the same time, he developed his skills in watercolour painting, producing original artworks inspired by familiar local landmarks and scenes.
He says the project has been deeply rewarding, particularly when it helps others view their surroundings in a new light. “Whenever I can help people see themselves and the world around them differently, it gives me great satisfaction,” he said. “I only wish my mum were still here to see the exhibition. I’m incredibly proud of what I’ve achieved.”
The exhibition has already generated strong public interest. Edwin is also leading a watercolour workshop at The Harris on February 8, which has completely sold out, highlighting a growing enthusiasm for traditional art techniques and local heritage.
Nostalgic Views of Preston will run until April 12, 2026, and entry is free as part of the museum’s general admission, with no ticket required. Since reopening in September after an extensive refurbishment, The Harris has welcomed more than 150,000 visitors, underscoring its renewed role as a major cultural attraction in the city.
