The exhibition, entitled 2Years2Wars, is the culmination of two journeys recorded by Sgt Maj Farthing in his travelling war diaries. Featuring Iraq and the North West Frontier (on the Afghan and Pakistan border) his art records war and the effects of war.

Sgt Maj Farthing, who has served for more than 20 years - firstly in the Parachute Regiment and more recently the Territorial Army - works quickly to capture moments in time from Iraq and Afghanistan. He has often painted in searing temperatures, his studio a trench, a rooftop or a hillside, and his extraordinary paintings capture the landscape, people, soldiers and their equipment - expressing the emotions and reality of life.

"War art is important," said Sgt Maj Farthing. "I document the real life events of serving soldiers. Our profession is different to any other and the position you can find yourself in, at a moment's notice, is so different to anything at home."

2Years2Wars will be on display in the Long Gallery within the Visitor Centre from Monday 9 January and can be viewed daily between 9am and 5pm. 

Entry to the National Memorial Arboretum is free although donations are appreciated. Please note that from January to the end of March 2012 there is a reduced car parking fee of £1.50. 

For further details of the exhibition visit our events calendar or www.mandellsgallery.co.uk/douglasfarthing.

For media information:
Kate Habberley, The Royal British Legion, 07943 333362, kate.habberley@talapr.co.uk