Permanent Collections & Galleries
The Shipley is a national centre for contemporary craft and has one of the best collections outside London, including ceramics, wood, metal, glass, textiles and furniture. The ceramics collection, which is complemented by the Henry Rothschild Collection, on long term loan since 1994, gives an in-depth perspective on the diversity of ceramic practice in the UK over the past 25 years.
The Shipley has one of the finest collections outside London of Dutch and Flemish 16th and 17th century paintings. It is also strong in British 19th century and early 20th century art. The fine art collection also features local favourites such as William Irving's The Blaydon Races, inspired by the Geordie anthem.
The Gallery
Small enough to be intimate yet big enough to show a variety of permanent and temporary displays, the Shipley offers a relaxed and friendly welcome to visitors of all ages. There is always something to see £ the Designs for Life gallery is open all year and there is a varied programme of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. The Gallery frequently hosts prestigious touring exhibitions from national museums including the British Museum and the V&A.
Designs for Life
The Shipley has recently undergone a major redevelopment and
Designs for Life, a new gallery on art, craft and design, opened in
March 2008.
Showcasing Tyne & Wear Museums' Design collections, the gallery
is home to over 300 objects made in many parts of the world over
the past 2000 years. These objects range from the special and
unique to the everyday and mass-produced. They take us on a journey
to explore the huge variety of ways in which we use the material
world to express ourselves and to enrich our lives.
Blaydon Races
William C. Irving's spectacular painting, capturing the spirit of
the Blaydon Races, takes pride of place at the Shipley Art
Gallery.
Characters from the famous paintings are brought to life in an
interactive display that enables visitors to find out more about
the painting. The audio-visual display brings to life characters
shown in the painting including Cushie Butterfield, Gull Wullie and
George the Punger. The display also allows visitors to find out
more about the artist William Irving and about Geordie Ridley£s
famous Blaydon Races song, which was recorded for the display by
children from Winlaton West Lane Community Primary School.