The Whitworth Art Gallery, located in Manchester, United Kingdom, is a hidden gem that houses over 60,000 items in its collection. The gallery is part of the University of Manchester and is situated in Whitworth Park, making it an ideal location for art enthusiasts to explore. In 2015, the gallery underwent a £15 million capital redevelopment that doubled its exhibition spaces, restored period features, and opened itself up to its surrounding park. The gallery received more than 440,000 visitors in its first year and was awarded the Art Fund's Museum of the Year prize in 2015....
Whitworth Art Gallery: A Hidden Gem in Manchester, United Kingdom
The Whitworth Art Gallery, located in Manchester, United Kingdom, is a hidden gem that houses over 60,000 items in its collection. The gallery is part of the University of Manchester and is situated in Whitworth Park, making it an ideal location for art enthusiasts to explore. In 2015, the gallery underwent a £15 million capital redevelopment that doubled its exhibition spaces, restored period features, and opened itself up to its surrounding park. The gallery received more than 440,000 visitors in its first year and was awarded the Art Fund's Museum of the Year prize in 2015.
Collections
The Whitworth Art Gallery has an impressive collection of artworks that span different periods and styles. The gallery's collection includes textiles, wallpapers, prints, drawings, paintings, and sculptures. Some notable artists whose works are exhibited in the gallery include David Cox The Elder, John Martin, David Cox, Marianne Stokes, Joseph Pierre Xavier Bidauld, and many more.
Painting by 'David Cox The Elder' : Landscape with Sheep (( Whitworth Art Gallery (Manchester, United Kingdom) , Oil , ))
Painting by 'John Martin' : Manfred and the Alpine Witch (( 388 x 558 cm , Whitworth Art Gallery (Manchester, United Kingdom) , Watercolour , ))
Painting by 'David Cox' : Landscape with Sheep (( Whitworth Art Gallery (Manchester, United Kingdom) , Oil On Panel , ))
Painting by 'Marianne Stokes' : Ehret die Frauen (( 174 x 256 cm , Whitworth Art Gallery (Manchester, United Kingdom) , Tapestry , ))
Painting by 'Joseph Pierre Xavier Bidauld' : Monte Cavo from Lake Albano (( 33 x 46 cm , Whitworth Art Gallery (Manchester, United Kingdom) , Oil On Canvas , ))
The gallery also has a collection of contemporary art that includes works by renowned artists such as Cornelia Parker, Rachel Whiteread, and Sarah Lucas. The gallery's textile collection is one of the most significant in the UK, with over 20,000 pieces dating from the 15th century to the present day.
Exhibitions
The Whitworth Art Gallery hosts a variety of exhibitions throughout the year that showcase its collection and temporary loans from other institutions. The gallery's exhibition program includes solo shows, thematic displays, and collaborative projects with other museums and galleries. Some notable past exhibitions include "Cotton: Global Threads," "Textiles in Revolution: French and British Linen," and "David Hockney: A Bigger Picture."
Architecture
The Whitworth Art Gallery's buildings are a mix of old and new. The main gallery premises were built for a learned society in 1823, and the two other buildings that make up the gallery were designed by Sir Charles Barry in the mid-19th century. In 2002, Hopkins Architects designed a building that links the three buildings together, creating a modern and functional space that complements the gallery's historic architecture.
Visiting
The Whitworth Art Gallery is free to enter and open six days a week, closed on Mondays. The gallery offers guided tours, workshops, and events for visitors of all ages. The gallery's café serves locally sourced food and drink, making it an ideal spot to relax after exploring the gallery's collections and exhibitions.
In conclusion, the Whitworth Art Gallery is a must-visit destination for art enthusiasts in Manchester, United Kingdom. With its impressive collection of artworks, diverse exhibition program, and stunning architecture, the gallery offers visitors an unforgettable experience.
Sources: