Mining Art Gallery A true underground art scene
Containing the works of prominent artists – many of whom were local to the area, including Tom McGuinness and Norman Cornish – the intimate and awe-inspiring Mining Art Gallery gives visitors a truly unique insight into the lives and souls of coal miners. Step into another world to see depictions of life in the mines, but also the communities that grew around them.
Open Thursday to Sunday, 10am-4pm
Book your ticketsThese incredible pieces illuminate and preserve a vital aspect of coalfield heritage for us to appreciate and study.
Culture, life, and community sprung out from mining in the North East; it’s our history, it’s our character, and it’s who we are. These inspiring works showcase the resilience and courage of those who lived and worked in the mines, and give an incredible perspective on how human creativity and spirit can shine even in the darkest places.
Created in partnership with Dr Robert McManners OBE and Gillian Wales, the gallery will take you on an exploration of the art, culture, and context of the mining industry and its place in the history of County Durham.
Ted Holloway, Testing for Gas, 1956.
Oil on canvas, 59 x 90.5cm
© Gemini Collection.
Courtesy of The Auckland Project / Zurbarán Trust
Tom Lamb, Having a Nap, 2006
Oil on canvas, 49.4 x 59.2cm
© Gemini Collection, courtesy of The Auckland Project / The Zurbarán Trust / Margaret Lamb
Robert Olley, The Last Drop, 2007
Oil on canvas, 121 x 89.5cm
© Gemini Collection, courtesy of The Auckland Project / The Zurbarán Trust / Robert Olley
Ted Holloway, Miners' Heads, 1958
Boot polish and wax on board, 39 x 29cm
© Gemini Collection, courtesy of The Auckland Project / The Zurbarán Trust
More to explore
If you fancy a break from the noise of modern life, we’ve got a series of suggested walks and things to look out for around our stunning grounds. Fancy a stroll?
