A family museum has launched a huge fundraising campaign with the aim to create a gallery dedicated to an “extraordinary” 20th century painter – a move which has been praised by the artist’s family.

Staff at the River and Rowing Museum in Henley- on - Thames hope to raise £22,000 in just 30 days to fund a permanent gallery dedicated to the late John Piper.

The landscape artist spent the majority of his working life at his Fawley farmhouse where he set up his famous studio.

The crowdfunding bid was launched on Thursday, May 19. Chief executive at the museum, Ludo Keston said: “To work on a project that brings together works of art from one of the most important artists our country has ever produced is a massive thrill.

“When that artist is local it becomes hugely more personal and significant, especially when that project is entirely in the hands of the community.”

The gallery has already gained approval from John Piper’s two children, Sebastian Piper and Clarissa Lewis Piper.

The pair said: “Our father would be delighted to have a gallery dedicated to his work in Henley, his local town for nearly 60 years. All the family is fully behind the bid and can think of no better or more fitting tribute.”

The museum is also offering gifts in exchange for donations from specially commissioned post cards to a John Piper print.

For more information and to donate to the River & Rowing Museum’s crowdfunding bid visit: http://www.artfund.org/get-involved/art-happens