Laing Art Gallery | Newcastle

The Laing Art Gallery is a prominent art museum located in Newcastle upon Tyne, known for its impressive collection of British art, including works from the 19th century, 20th century, and contemporary artists. Situated in the heart of the city center, the Laing Art Gallery has been a key cultural institution for over a century, providing access to a diverse range of art forms and offering an immersive experience for both art enthusiasts and general visitors. The gallery is part of the Newcastle Museums group, and it serves as an important resource for those interested in visual art and culture.

History and Background

1. Founding and Early History

The Laing Art Gallery was established in 1904 and was funded largely by Alexander Laing, a prominent local businessman and philanthropist. The building was designed by the renowned architect Sir Arthur Blomfield, and its architectural style is an elegant example of neo-classical design.

• The original collection was largely focused on British art, with an emphasis on historical and landscape paintings. Over the years, the gallery expanded its holdings and became home to a broader array of art forms, including modern works, sculpture, and decorative arts.

2. Growth and Development

The Laing Art Gallery has undergone several expansions and renovations throughout its history. In particular, during the 1960s and 1970s, the gallery underwent a series of transformations to accommodate an expanding collection and modernize its exhibition spaces. This has allowed the museum to present a wider range of art styles and movements, from Romanticism and Victorian painting to more contemporary genres like Pop Art and abstract expressionism.

• The gallery also has a long tradition of hosting temporary exhibitions, bringing together works from both local and international artists, as well as thematic exhibitions focusing on specific movements, genres, or historical periods.

Key Exhibitions and Collections

The Laing Art Gallery’s collection spans over 500 years of art, with particular strengths in British art, and it is known for its rich holdings of works from the Victorian era, Edwardian period, and 20th-century British artists. Some of its most notable collections include:

1. British Art Collection

The Laing Art Gallery is home to an extensive collection of 19th-century British art, including works by notable artists such as:

• John William Waterhouse – A leading figure in the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, Waterhouse's works often explore themes of mythology, legend, and the human form.
• Sir John Everett Millais – Another Pre-Raphaelite artist, Millais’ work is represented in the collection with several notable pieces that capture his emotive style and interest in realism and symbolism.
• Dante Gabriel Rossetti – A founder of the Pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood, Rossetti’s work is well-represented, including his famous portraits and mythological themes.

The collection also includes key works from Victorian and Edwardian painting, illustrating the changing tastes and aesthetic values of these periods.

2. 20th Century British Art

In addition to its historical collections, the Laing Art Gallery features a strong collection of 20th-century British art. Notable artists from this period include:

• Walter Sickert – Known for his moody, atmospheric scenes of urban life and the human form.
• Richard Hamilton – A pioneer of Pop Art, Hamilton's work is featured in the gallery’s modern collection, reflecting the vibrant and often provocative nature of 20th-century visual culture.

The gallery also showcases works from Surrealist, abstract, and expressionist movements, including pieces by Henry Moore, Barbara Hepworth, and Lucian Freud.

3. Sculpture and Decorative Arts

While painting and drawing have long been central to the Laing's holdings, the gallery also boasts a rich collection of sculpture and decorative arts. The sculpture collection includes works from important British sculptors, while the gallery's decorative arts collection features ceramics, glass, and textiles, representing the evolution of artistic craft throughout the centuries.

• Sculpture in the gallery includes pieces by renowned figures like Henry Moore, Anthony Gormley, and Barbara Hepworth.

4. Temporary Exhibitions

In addition to its permanent collection, the Laing Art Gallery regularly hosts temporary exhibitions, which often focus on specific themes, artists, or movements. These exhibitions allow the museum to offer fresh and dynamic content to its visitors. Examples of past temporary exhibitions include:

• Exhibitions on Impressionism and Post-Impressionism.
• Major retrospectives of British artists or thematic explorations of art history.
• Exhibitions of contemporary art, focusing on both national and international artists.

These temporary exhibitions often draw on loans from major institutions and private collections, providing a broader and diverse range of art for public viewing.

Educational Programs and Activities

The Laing Art Gallery is dedicated to providing educational experiences and fostering a deeper understanding of art for all ages. Its learning programs include:

• Workshops for children and families, encouraging creativity and artistic expression.
• School programs tailored to different age groups and learning objectives, helping students engage with art in meaningful ways.
• Talks, lectures, and guided tours led by curators and art experts, offering insight into the works on display.

1. Family and Community Engagement

The Laing offers regular family-friendly activities, including art workshops, storytelling sessions, and interactive events. These programs are designed to engage younger audiences and encourage creativity through hands-on experiences with art.

2. Adult Education and Talks

The gallery also runs a number of adult-focused education programs, including talks on art history, contemporary art, and gallery tours. These sessions allow visitors to engage with the works in the collection and gain a deeper understanding of artistic movements, techniques, and the historical context behind the pieces.

Notable Features and Architecture

The architecture of the Laing Art Gallery is a significant feature of its appeal. The building itself is an elegant example of neo-classical design, with large, open galleries that allow for the spacious display of artwork. Key features of the building include:

• The grand entrance with columns and pediments, giving the building a stately and monumental appearance.
• Bright, airy galleries with natural light, making the art on display even more captivating.
• The gallery’s central atrium, which provides a space for special events and temporary exhibitions, and serves as a welcoming area for visitors.

Visitor Information

The Laing Art Gallery is centrally located in Newcastle, making it easy to access from other key attractions in the city. It is open year-round and offers free admission to its permanent collections, although some temporary exhibitions may require an entry fee.

• The gallery is wheelchair accessible, with facilities designed to accommodate visitors with disabilities.
• There is a café offering light refreshments, where visitors can relax after exploring the galleries.
• The gift shop sells a range of art-related products, books, and gifts, making it a great place to pick up a souvenir of your visit.

Conclusion

The Laing Art Gallery is a cultural gem in Newcastle, offering a diverse and impressive collection of British art spanning from the 19th century to contemporary works. With its beautiful architecture, dynamic exhibitions, and commitment to education and public engagement, the gallery provides a welcoming space for both art lovers and newcomers to the world of art. Whether you're interested in Victorian painting, 20th-century British art, or contemporary sculpture, the Laing Art Gallery offers something for everyone. It stands as an important institution in Newcastle, preserving and promoting the rich artistic heritage of both the city and the wider country.